Presidential Scholars  2006

Records 1 through 50 out of 141

	Rebecca Allen (Now Burgoyne-Allen) Ft. Mitchell, KY Beechwood High School College/College Plans: Yale University   Rebecca is a young woman of diverse interests. She is the president of the National Honor Society and editor of her school’s yearbook. She participates in Odyssey of the Mind and the Junior Engineering Technical Society. Rebecca is a National Merit finalist and valedictorian of her class. She spends her time playing Varsity tennis and cheerleading and coaches a competitive youth cheerleading squad in her community. Rebecca’s most rewarding experience has been tutoring a learning disabled student at her high school. She also enjoys working at a local pharmacy. Rebecca plans to major in biomedical engineering with a Pre-Med focus, study Spanish and Zulu, and perhaps dabble in Art History. Rebecca is interested in Public Health and hopes to spend a year abroad in Africa working with HIV/AIDS survivors.
	Theresa C. Anderson Waukesha, WI Catholic Memorial High School College/College Plans: University of Wisconsin-Madison   “Whizzing around the D.C. ice, our final skater, Theresa Anderson!” “What’s that in her hand?” “Tess has a theoretical calculus book. She’s calculating the triple integral of her layback spin.” “I see she also brought us lunch, her favorites: green curry chicken, roast lamb Moroccan, quesadilla mexicana, raspberry cream gelato from Italy wow, what a lot of food! She must have a fast metabolism!” “After this competition, Tess plans on traveling to new places, finding cures for diseases, observing the universe, visiting particle accelerators, and acting as Hamlet.” “Tess truly loves learning - Academic Decathlon, Science Bowl Captain, Coca-Cola Scholar I think obsessed is a better word.” “Gorgeous extension, and thrilling positions in that spin: with the calculus book balanced on her head! It’s the most creative ending I’ve ever seen!" "Silly, she’s only just begun!"
	Josh R. Archibald-Seiffer Boise, ID Timberline High School College/College Plans: Stanford University   Josh received his Bachelor's Degree in music from Stanford University on Sunday, June 13. He graduated with University distinction (that’s the highest recognition Stanford offers), and with Music Department Honors in composing. He was also the recipient of Stanford’s Robert Golden Medal for achievement in the creative and performing arts, and the Carolyn Applebaum Memorial Award for outstanding contributions to the Department of Music. During his senior year Josh was also a teaching assistant, a position usually reserved for graduate students. He had many performances of his works both on and off the University campus, as well as a piano concert at the famous Grunewald Church in Berlin, Germany, during his study abroad there in his junior year. Next year he will be a graduate student in composing at the University of Washington in Seattle, where he has received a teaching fellowship.
	James E. Baldwin Mayville, ND May-Port CG High School College/College Plans: Undecided   James grew up on his family’s farm in North Dakota, and from his experiences there he learned to work hard and solve problems. Goals have always been a large part of his life. Whether it was making the varsity basketball team as a freshman, reaching weighlifting benchmarks, achieving a specific score on a test, or realizing a profit in business, he set high goals. He is the student council president, Future Business Leaders of America vice president, and rocketry club president at his school. He was also a varsity basketball captain and is involved in National Honor Society, track and music. In his free time he enjoys weightlifting, reading, and making comedy videos. James plans to become involved in politics after college.
	Cameron S. Ball Henderson, NV Coronado High School College/College Plans: Washington University in St. Louis   This hard-working, motivated young man strives for excellence in everything he does. Academically, Cameron has pushed himself extremely hard, taking mostly AP courses throughout high school, and enrolling in a college math course during his senior year. An accomplished artist, he continues to pursue a passion to create. Outside the classroom, Cameron furthers his education by reading, watching NOVA programs, and learning languages. He also strives to be a model citizen. President of his school’s National Honor Society, he is deeply involved in community service and a myriad of extracurricular activities. He also enjoys tennis, t’ai chi, the outdoors, and biking. What makes him unique is his determination to become a better person: ceaselessly patient, humble, and kind. After college, Cameron hopes to become a world renowned architect who works to rebuild inner cities and slums around the world into places of safety and joy.
	J Andrew Benecke St. Louis, MO Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School College/College Plans: Massachusetts Institute of Technology   Of all my accomplishments, my favorite has to be my attendance record. No, I am not one of those students recognized for perfect attendance; on the contrary, I missed in excess of 150 days of class over the course of my high school education. Before you take me for a truant, allow me to explain myself. Virtually all of those absences were incurred during my freshman and junior years, during which I was in treatment for osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. My attendance record testifies to the obstacles that I have overcome in the course of my education, and it is for that reason that I am proud of my staggering number of days absent. Despite my part-time attendance throughout high school, I have been at the top of my class and have stayed involved in the school community by serving as a cohead of our Honor Council. I look forward to good health and a better attendance record over the next four years as I study at MIT.
	Brandon A. Berger Nashville, TN University School of Nashville College/College Plans: University of North Carolina or Yale University   If I were a body of water, I would be the Ocoee River, one of my favorite summer paddling spots, and a good ol’ Tennessee classic whitewater run. The river seems to share my personality in many ways. It is dam controlled, so it sleeps at night. It has some of the finest surfing waves on the planet and loves to play, and has periods of intense activity followed by mellow flat water. It also smells odd after days of summer heat and is inadvisable to ingest. This is me in aquatic form. Most shockingly, just like me it loves literature and political science, plays lacrosse, runs cross country, has won research writing competitions, enjoys extended metaphoric comparison, and has an adorable dog named Shadow.
	Jennifer M. Blankenship Anchorage, AK A. J. Dimond High School College/College Plans: Wellesley College   I have always been an avid reader, and I credit to books my academic success as well as my eventual move from the written to the spoken word. I have been a member of my school’s debate team for four years and have loved every second of it. I also have enjoyed my time participating in Mock Trial and Model United Nations. I have volunteered at a local science center for a couple of years now, and I adore spending time with the kids who come there to learn. I love my home in Alaska, but I am looking forward to exploring other parts of both the country and the world in the coming years.
	Thomas J. Blemaster Washington, DC St. Albans School College/College Plans: Duke University   Perhaps less reserved than most scholars, Tom spends much of his time on the stage. He has performed in roughly fifteen productions over recent years and currently serves as president of his school’s drama club. Indeed, he has played every role from the drunken, skirt-chasing manservant to the acrid news reporter to the ambitious policy wonk. His other interests vary wildly. An avid climber, Tom spends many of his afternoons on rocks overlooking the Potomac River, near his home. He also acts as editor in-chief of his school newspaper, a position he preceded by working on the business side of a small paper in Upstate NY. He loves his family, his friends, and his delightfully clueless feline, Mac, a creature who happily whiles away entire afternoons staring wistfully at the cabinet in which his food is stored.
	Andrew L. Bolano Huntington, WV Covenant School College/College Plans: Washington University, St. Louis   The town I live in is a small, quiet town, but I find many activities to fill my schedule. I know Sir Isaac Newton said it can’t be done, but I often feel that I would like to be in two places at once, in order to do all that I enjoy. I divide my twenty four hours among soccer, academics, scouting, and musical arts. I take pleasure in my academic success but I truly enjoy making a difference whenever I can; whether it is on the soccer field as captain of our state championship team, in the classroom, volunteering at the hospital or working for Habitat for Humanity. I tend to take charge and I’m quick to lighten the mood whenever spirits are heavy. Of the many terms my friends have use to describe me (i.e. brainiac, reliable, relaxed, quirky, fearless leader), I must say I prefer “quirky” perhaps mixed with a bit of “fearless leader.” Fascinated with the universal language of mathematics, I plan to pursue a career in engineering, perhaps aeronautical or biomedical. Although the path is uncharted and challenging, I am certainly enjoying the trek.
	Ashley N. Brisco Covington, KY Covington Latin School College/College Plans: Princeton University   I love to laugh and to find the bright side of any situation. My first foray as an engineer was the extensive Lego building project I constructed at the age of five. Now I want to delve into the mysterious activity of the atom, the cell and life itself. Discovering the cure for cancer is my ultimate goal, and it is one of the reasons I am actively involved with the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. I also enjoy dancing, which I have participated in for 10 years. The ability to express emotion in art is so important. My appreciation was expanded when I learned to play the piano, flute and the violin. My favorite movie is Gone with the Wind. My favorite quote is Edison’s: “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.”
	Tice P. Brown Batesville, AR Batesville High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Tice is a small town Arkansan boy who has tried to excel in any way possible in his rural community. He actually lives in a “suburb” of Batesville (population 9,000) that has a much smaller citizenship of 166. Tice is an Eagle Scout, a pianist of thirteen years, and an All-Region trumpet player. Tice reads pathologically, and especially enjoys great works of literature, as well as scientific and political news through National Geographic and Newsweek. Tice attended the International Science and Engineering Fair in the 9th and 10th grades with projects investigating the effects of commercial airflight on the human respiratory system and the genetic causes of sarcopenia, the muscle loss and morbidity that often accompany old age. He is now enrolled as a sophomore in the Harvard College Class of 2010. He has just declared his Concentration as Chemical and Physical Biology, with a secondary field in Government and a Language Citation in Mandarin Chinese. He is active in campus politics, the Harvard Catholic Student Association, and Inter-mural Ping-Pong. Tice spent the summer after his freshman year in Washington D.C. as an intern for Congressman Marion Berry (D-AR) and will spend the next summer at Beijing Language Institute in Beijing, China studying at Harvard University's Beijing Summer Language Academy.
	Billy Buss Berkeley, CA Berkeley High School College/College Plans: Undecided   A trumpet player since age 9, Billy has earned two DOWNBEAT Student Music Awards for “Outstanding Performance/Soloist” and several scholarships, including NFAA’s $10,000 Gold Award. For 4 years a member of the San Francisco All-Star High School Jazz Ensemble, he also performed with the CMEA/IAJE California All-State Honor Jazz Ensemble, the 2004 Monterey Jazz Festival High School All-Star Band, the 2006 Clifford Brown/Stan Getz Fellows, and the 2006 Gibson/Baldwin GRAMMY Band Jazz Ensemble. His jazz combo twice claimed first place in the Monterey Jazz Festival’s Next Generation Competition. Billy feels fortunate to have studied with trumpeter Mic Gillette since age 11, and to have worked with greats like Jay McShann, Ravi Coltrane, Victor Goines, Steve Turre, Charlie Hunter, Roy Hargrove, Brian Blade, Tiger Okoshi, Nicholas Payton, Phil Wilson, Wynton Marsalis, Joshua Redman, Oscar Peterson, Allen Toussaint, Hank Jones, Barry Harris, Irma Thomas, Ivan Neville, and Coolio.
	Kaitlin H. Butler Tulsa, OK Booker T. Washington High School College/College Plans: University of Texas at Dallas   As a kid, Kaitlin’s one goal in life was to read every book in the children’s section of the library. Although she gave up on this plan a while ago, she hasn’t lost her childlike wonder at the power of words. She is a writer for the youth section of her local newspaper, and was honored with an Achievement Award in Writing from the National Council of Teachers of English. After realizing the sad state that many area schools were in, Kaitlin decided to become a volunteer tutor. She works with at-risk children, helping them with basic reading and math skills. In addition, Kaitlin serves on the Executive Board of National Honor Society, is a member of the Model United Nations team, and started a Knitting Club at her school. Kaitlin will attend the University of Texas at Dallas as a McDermott Scholar, and is undecided as to a major.
	Gage R. Caligaris Lawrenceville, NJ The Lawrenceville School College/College Plans: Harvard College   I have many different interests and activities. I am a nationally ranked chess player and play on the varsity basketball team. I am a big sports fan and much of my spare time is spent following my favorite teams, the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers. Community service plays an important role in my life and most of the work I do involves helping kids. I have a younger sister named Taylor who will be entering high school next fall. In college I want to major in Mathematics or Economics and I hope to eventually pursue a career in business. undecided as to a major.
	Jonathan M. Campbell Dallas, TX Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing & Visual Arts College/College Plans: The Juilliard School   Washington High School for the Performing & Visual Arts, where he was a member of Repertory I Dance Company. Jonathan is a Texas Young Master recognized by the Texas Commission on the Arts, as well as a two year scholarship recipient with the Dallas Dance Council. He has toured the nation with Tremaine Dance Conventions and has performed with the pre-professional contemporary company, Dallas Repertoire Ballet. In 2006, NFAA honored Jonathan as an ARTS Gold Winner in Jazz Dance, an ARTS Merit Winner in Ballet, and an ARTS Honorable Mention Winner in Modern Dance. In previous years, he attended the prestigious summer programs of the San Francisco Ballet, the Joffrey Ballet School, and the Juilliard School. Jonathan looks forward to attending Juilliard in the fall.
	Sarah C. Campbell Birmingham, AL Alabama School of Fine Arts College/College Plans: Smith College   Sarah, a writer from Birmingham, Alabama, is a graduate of the Alabama School of Fine Arts, where she specialized in Creative Writing. She writes poetry, fiction, non fiction, and plans to keep at it. Sarah received a Silver Award from the NFAA ARTS program in 2006, won a Gold Award in the 2004 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, and was the winner of the Howard Nemerov Creative Writing Award in Fiction in 2005. She has been published in Cargoes; The Apprentice Writer; and Where We Are, What We See: Poems, Stories, Essays and Art From the Best Young Writers in America. Sarah plans to study the humanities–probably English, History, Government, or Religion - at Smith College next fall.
	Christopher T. Chen San Marino, CA Polytechnic School College/College Plans: Harvard College   I firmly believe that those who have the privilege of education also have the great responsibility of spearheading social improvement and plan to enter a career in public health. Fighting to protect the world’s most valuable asset – the health of its people – deeply inspires me in a way that nothing else can. At the same time, I have a profound appreciation for the small joys in life. I love friends, family, ideas, people, inspiration, hamburgers, late-night ice cream, laughter and walking down California Boulevard in the welcoming California sun. No matter where life takes me, I hope I will always appreciate and understand the inherent beauty of the human spirit.
	Jennifer J. Chen Columbus, OH Upper Arlington High School College/College Plans: Princeton University   Jen has been known to write about herself in the third person, laugh hysterically at bad science jokes, and have a packed, constantly changing schedule that causes her friends to lose track of her. She has participated in Speech and Debate for seven years in both Lincoln-Douglas and Extemporaneous categories, done science research for eight years with the last two focusing on skin cancer, and been a part of an on-and-off relationship with her piano for around a decade. To satisfy the political thinker in her, she established the first nonpartisan political discussion group at her high school. However, it has been her role in the school literary arts magazine that has engaged her the most, allowing her to explore her creative side as both a contributor and Editor-in-Chief. Jen plans on exploring her interests in computer science, English, molecular biology, and economics in college.
	Sean Chen Oak Park, CA Oak Park High School College/College Plans: Juilliard School of Music   Ever since I started playing piano at the age of five, I have grown more and more attached to my music. Throughout my schooling years I have managed to work hard and be a good student while continuing to pursue my love of music. I also developed a wonderful interest in science, especially in the fields of physics and modern theoretical science. I love learning anything that interests me, from origami to chemistry. My love for music has led me to participate in several international competitions and play with many orchestras. I have also played for many pianists from around the world to extend my experience. In addition to playing the piano, I play the violin in a community youth orchestra and compose for fun. I also enjoy drawing, singing in choir, building models, and spending time on the computer designing graphics and websites.
	Cindy C. Cheng New Orleans, LA Bullis School College/College Plans: Harvard College   My favorite pastime is hugging trees. This diversion allows me, I believe, to indulge my dual passions of science and environmentalism. For the past several years, I have conducted research in the biology and health fields, with my primary field of interest being epidemiology. One of my most enjoyable service activities is volunteering at Teen Court, where convicted teens are offered a second chance. In the past year, my life has undergone a huge change after Hurricane Katrina. This, however, has only stepped up my commitment to environmental activism. At my former high school, I was elected president of Mu Alpha Theta and Science Olympiad. At my current school, I’m layout editor for the literary magazine and online layout editor for the school newspaper. In my free time, I play piano and bass, tinker with web-design, practice falling off my skateboar (gracefully), and collect scarves.
	Robert Allan Clark Claremore, OK Claremore High School College/College Plans: Oklahoma State University   Oklahoma State University
	Jennifer D. Claytor Shelby, NC Shelby High School College/College Plans: Princeton University   A rabid aficionado of movies, Jennifer loves reading subtitles and noticing fake accents. Currently, she is learning to read Cyrillic script. Combined, these two passions guarantee her at least a campily bad Russian accent someday. Not that she doesn’t already imbue every word of Latin she speaks with a Southern twang – she is interested in a Classics major and serves as an aedile for her school’s Latin National Honors Society. She also loves classic literature and classical music (especially Bach and Shostakovich). Often, she chauffeurs her cello to school, Youth Symphony, All-State Orchestras, and lessons. Gardner-Webb University recently selected her as a winner of its concerto competition, for which she will soon perform. She is a recipient of the Woodsman of the World US History Award, National School Orchestra award, a National Merit scholarship winner, and an AP Scholar with Honors. Jennifer tentatively plans a career in medicine.
	Garrett M. Coleman Pittsburgh, PA Central Catholic High School College/College Plans: Undecided   Garrett, a senior honors graduate, aspired as a young child to be an Irish Step Dancer. He has studied with the world-renowned Theresa Burke for 13 years, as well as with Ireland’s Chris Ryan. In 2004, Garrett became his age group’s All-Ireland Champion: the third American to do so in 40 years. He captured the World Championship title in 2004 and 2005. He is nine-time Mid-American Champion and six-time North American champion, and claimed the prestigious Minor Belt Championship in 2001. Having won the 2004 North American, All-Ireland, and World Championships, he is considered a “Triple Crown Winner,” one of few Americans to achieve such distinction. Garrett has performed with popular Irish bands ‘The Chieftans” and “Cherish the Ladies,” Eileen Eivers (of Riverdance fame), “Gaelic Storm” (featured in the hit film “Titanic”), with Marvin Hamlisch and the Pittsburgh Symphony, “Attack Theatre,” and the Trinity Dance Company.
	Shipra De Las Vegas, NV Green Valley High School College/College Plans: University of Nevada, Las Vegas   I am an American citizen who was born in Australia and whose family background is from Bangladesh. I really enjoy learning about different countries and cultures, and I hope to one day travel around the world. In the meantime, I will be working on a dual degree in chemistry and mathematics. With the exception of the time I apparently told my mother I wanted to be a car dealer, I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. Therefore, I plan to pursue a career in education at either the secondary or collegiate level. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and doing various arts and crafts. My passion, however, lies in ceramics. I enjoy entering my pottery in art competitions such as the Scholastic Art Awards and the NFAA-Arts Awards, where I have received high honors.
	Brittany M. Epler Veteran, WY Southeast Goshen County High School College/College Plans: University of Wyoming   Graduating in a class of twenty two has been one of the most influential details of my high school career. Not only was I on a first name basis with everyone in the high school, but I was also able to pursue many different leadership roles. My senior year I was student council president, FFA chapter president, 4-H club president, a National Honor Society member, valedictorian, and selected to become a member of Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Each one of these organizations has left me with many memories (such as how much Mountain Dew is too much Mountain Dew) and numerous life skills. Ultimately it’s my participation in these activities that will help me to accomplish my goals later in life. Following the completion of my Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business at the University of Wyoming, I plan to continue my education in law school focusing on environmental law.
	Rachel A. Esplin Blackfoot, ID Blackfoot High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Rachel loves life, seeks growth, and strives to lift others. She served as senior class president, ASB Historian, National Forensic League president, Lincoln-Douglas debate captain, and State LD debate champion, ranking 7th in the nation in the NFL. She competed in scholastic bowl, including two years as captain, and was cross country captain and a varsity runner for four years. She implemented an elementary Spanish course for local children, tutored at a Hispanic kindergarten, and volunteered extensively as President of her LDS church youth group. Having served for 3 years as a girls’ camp counselor, she is now a camp director. She has played the harp and piano for a combined total of 21 years. She owned and operated her own produce sales business and grew up on an Idaho potato farm. She loves snowboarding, waterskiing, jetskiing, backpacking, motorcycling, and camping. Rachel plans to concentrate in linguistics and study abroad, and hopes to work as an ambassador to China. Her dream job: Secretary of State.
	Casey J. Estes Melrose, NM Melrose High School College/College Plans: Texas A&M University   All of my life I have had a great love for nature. My experiences on the family farm have contributed to this love in numerous ways. Every year, I’ve witnessed the cycle of life as our fields go from planting to harvest. I’ve also learned how animals adapt to their surroundings through our ranching operation. But my greatest interest is human nature. My friends and family are all unique individuals who have influenced me greatly. Their differing views have helped me keep an open mind in everything that I do, be it school activities, community programs, work, or even baseball strategy! One particular influence has been my dad, who taught me to look at things from the point of view of others when trying to understand situations and decisions. I plan on majoring in psychology in college, so I can learn more about human nature and hopefully, improve myself!
	Allyson K. Ettinger Camden, ME Camden Hills Regional High School College/College Plans: Brandeis University   Allyson’s life, like that of most human infants, began rather unremarkably, taking a turn for the interesting when she acquired basic communication and motor skills, at which point she began exploring the world and, subsequently, collecting identities. From sweeper to soprano, third baseman to mallet percussionist, civil rights team member to actress to babysitter, Allyson keeps pretty busy. More than anything, however, Allyson has identified an intense fascination with the art and science of language. Whether studying a foreign tongue or writing a play, she is passionately devoted to the world of words, and plans to pursue this interest for as long as it lasts.
	Krista Ettlinger Hollywood, FL Saint Thomas Aquinas High School College/College Plans: Northwestern University   Krista is both a scholar and an artist. Her rigorous schedule of school and ballet training sometimes leaves her feeling like there are too few hours in the day, but she relishes the challenge of being a better student and a well-rounded person. She loves her ballet training, which she began at age six. She discovered a passion for this art form when she realized the power of expressing herself through dance movement. It is hard to believe that she once had such a lack of coordination and balance that her mom put her into gymnastics to learn how to walk uphill! She overcame that lack of grace through dance, going on to win first place at a regional Youth America Grand Prix Competition and becoming a Top Twelve Finalists in the Grand Prix finals in New York City last year. This year she is one of forty dancers selected out of hundreds of applicants worldwide to compete in the USA International Ballet Competition in Jackson, Mississippi.
	Judith E. Fan Scottsdale, AZ Chaparral High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Judy Fan spent many a minute staring down that obnoxiously blank virtual sheet of paper on her computer monitor, challenging it to create a unique and creative way to describe her interests, accomplishments, and goals, and include the requisite charmingly self-deprecating admissions or quirky habits that might breathe some life into an otherwise solemn biography-in just 150 words. How might she convey her endless enthusiasm for the sport of badminton, despite incurring a second ACL injury on the way to a third state championship? Could she express her fascination for evolutionary biology and Spiderman comics without waxing melodramatic or sounding tacky? Was it too strange that she always set the microwave timer to a multiple of 7? Or that she never learned how to whistle? Not surprisingly, the Word paperclip was of little use.
	Samantha T. Fang Sunnyvale, CA The Harker School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Samantha, a graduate of The Harker School, began her piano studies at five. She currently studies with Mr. John McCarthy at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Samantha has earned numerous awards, including quarterfinalist at the Seventh National Chopin Piano Competition, recipient of the Chopin Foundation of the United States scholarship, and first prizes at the Pacific Musical Society and Ross McKee Foundation competitions. Additionally, she has performed in Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall and was awarded a 2006 Silver Award in Music from the National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts. She will be broadcast as a soloist on WQXR radio’s Young Artist’s Showcase. Samantha enjoys her academic studies: valedictorian of her class and National Merit scholarship recipient, she also is a National AP Scholar and serves as President of her school’s Cum Laude Society, a student chair of the Judicial Committee, and President of the Women in Science club.
	Elizabeth R. Fayette Wading River, NY Shoreham-Wading River High School College/College Plans: The Curtis Institute of Music   Elizabeth (“Libby”) is the second child of four musical children. Since her older brother had already claimed the violin, she seemed bound for cello studies. She had other ideas, and at two years old began to play violin. Libby prides herself on her ability to balance academic interests, community service, and musical studies. She entered the Juilliard Pre-College Division in 1998 as a student of Ms. Shirley Givens and in her eight years there has won the 2004 Concerto Competition, received an achievement award, and was selected for the Honors Seminar (a two-year course which will allow her to graduate from the Pre-College with Honors.). Meanwhile, in her other life at high school, Libby is an AP Scholar with Distinction, a National Merit Commended Scholar, an editor for her school newspaper and a peer tutor in both violin and academic subjects. She enjoys reading everything and modern music.
	Katherine F. Feldman Montpelier, VT U-32 Junior/Senior High School College/College Plans: Wesleyan University   I have a hard time dissecting myself into a list of characteristics, preferring to believe that I am more than the sum of my accomplishments. So where shall I start in describing myself? What I’ve done? What I’m like? What I’d like to be? I study Japanese, even lived in Japan, play jazz piano and saxophone, and started a project and a protocol for amphibian conservation in Vermont. I am a good alpine skier and a poor fencer. I am an artist. Yet all of this doesn’t tell you that my greatest passion is writing - or that I am not an extrovert, yet wish to touch the world, to be a leader after my own fashion. What sets me apart? I think it is not what I have accomplished or where my interests lie. I think it is the fact that despite my faults and foibles I wish to use all of my talents and strengths for the causes I believe in. For these causes, I refuse to be a slave to my own personality, environment, or fears. I hope to overcome the worst in myself and use what I have for the help and education of others.
	Roberto Aram Ferdman San Juan, PR Saint John’s School College/College Plans: Brown University   Brown Univiersity
	Shannon K. Flynn Townsend, MT Broadwater High School College/College Plans: Carroll College   I’d like to describe for you a typical week in the life of a determined, competitive, enthusiastic smalltown girl. After church, Sunday afternoon is consumed by one activity or another. This week, my 4-H club plants trees at the local fairgrounds. In the evening, I spend a few hours making edits on an award-winning paper about Broadwater County fires; it will be published in a magazine in the fall. Then, it’s time for another week of school, where I’ll strive to maintain my 4.0 GPA while participating in various service and educational clubs. It’s important that I’m a positive role model for younger students, through my actions. My life isn’t complete without year-round sports activities, and since it’s spring, I’m putting in the miles needed to prepare for weekend track meets. My other two athletic passions are basketball and volleyball, and I’ll be pursuing those interests as a collegiate athlete.
	Ruvani W. Fonseka Grosse Pointe Shores, MI Grosse Pointe North High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   An avid participant in both choir and quiz bowl, Ruvani also loves to read any book she can get her hands on, and run cross-country. Her most unusual experience during high school was definitely being a semifinalist on the 2005 Jeopardy Teen tournament, where she met a great group of friends she still keeps in contact with today. She plans to study biochemistry at Harvard, but with her love for mathematics and Italian, she knows that those plans may change for the better! She is still unsure what she wants to do after college, but whatever it is, she wants to make a positive difference in the world, and to relieve suffering in some way.
	Charles A. Frentz Kennebunk, ME Phillips Academy College/College Plans: Harvard College   My life’s adventures have been geared to expand my horizons. I have continually sought challenges and opportunities that indulge my passion for exploring the unknown. At age eight, I left behind my roots in the rarefied Northeast and relocated with my mother, my sole parent, to the unfamiliar Oklahoma frontier to begin life anew. Like Joseph Conrad’s Marlow, I have always been fascinated with the so called ‘blank spaces’ on the map – places to which I have traveled only in my imagination. Moving to Oklahoma City opened my mind to the expansiveness of unexplored territory. As my mother propelled me from one adventure to another, I became increasingly comfortable with the unknown. In turn, my years on the edge of the prairie were a coming of age that prepared me well for the challenges that would lie ahead at Andover and beyond. Looking ahead to college, I am confident that my international service experiences in Guadeloupe and India will posture me to contribute to the global economic development and business landscapes.
	Katie Camille Friedman Bartlett, TN St. Mary’s Episcopal School College/College Plans: Princeton University   My passions lie within two seemingly unrelated areas: music and science. Both inside and outside of school, I take advantage of every musical opportunity that I can possibly fit into my schedule. I have spent years in solo, ensemble, and accompaniment piano activities, all of which have led me to travel to various states as well as countries. More recently, I’ve discovered the world of jazz and enjoyed being the only girl in this year’s All-State Jazz Band. Lastly, to learn a quirky new instrument, I started playing the tuba last year in my school band. Outside of music, I enjoy math groups as well as learning about the newest scientific innovations. I look forward to applying my science knowledge into some hands on, real life applications through my engineering studies in hopes of helping others and perhaps solving some problems that have become part of everyday life.
	Shiv M. Gaglani Melbourne, FL West Shore High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   My first distinction was one in which I ironically had no part in. I became the first recorded Indian child to be born in Namibia. I have been to over fourteen countries, but America is my home. Early on I thought I wanted to be an entomologist, but when I was six I visited a hospital and was inspired me to be an innovative physician researcher. I have completed seven medical research projects since 9th grade and have placed 2nd at ISEF twice and won the AAN Neuroscience Research Prize. My research has been published in journals such as Cell Transplantation. I am a Rickoid who was in RSI 2005 and I am a member of the 2006 USA TODAY First Academic Team. In addition, I was voted SGA President and Homecoming Prince of my high school. My hobbies include speech, tennis, football, video games, beach bumming, working out and kayaking.
	Neehar N. Garg Granger, IN St. Joseph’s High School College/College Plans: Washington University, St. Louis   Growing up in the shadow of the University of Notre Dame, where his father is a professor, Neehar’s intellectual curiosity has been well nurtured. As a Hindu, he enrolled at a Catholic high school for the religious discourse and to learn a bit more about the world around him. He was active in everything from multiple economics and mathematics competitions to soccer, mock trial, and quiz bowl. He has become involved in politics wherever possible, both locally, where he is working on a congressional campaign for Indiana’s 2nd District, and even at Harvard Summer School in 2005, serving as president of a local Democrat organization. He is active in the community, tutoring and working in soup kitchens. Neehar has interests in everything from philosophy, economics, and international relations to language, mathematics, and biology. Possible careers range from work in academia to law, business, medicine – or really, anything else that presents itself.
	Corey J. Georgesen Omaha, NE Creighton Prep High School College/College Plans: University of Nebraska-Lincoln   I am always up for a new challenge. Perhaps that is why I have always taken the hardest classes at school, sought leadership positions within my extracurriculars, and pushed myself in athletics. I have really become involved in community service during the past year or two. Besides heading teams and groups in my school, I like to spend time volunteering at a local retirement home and a hospital. Perhaps this explains why I have always wanted to be a doctor when I grow up. My favorite subject in school is science, and I like to compete in Science Bowl and T.E.A.M.S., along with participating in Science Club. In my free time I like to hunt, fish, and play Xbox. The next challenge I look forward to facing is to double major in biochemistry and mathematics and be accepted into medical school.
	Sarah J. Gidlewski Ames, IA Ames High School College/College Plans: Iowa State University   Life is a journey that I take pleasure in making as interesting as possible. I am able to reflect on my life every summer when my family and I trek to my grandfather’s cabin near Glacier National Park. The lack of electricity, running water, and society make it an ideal spot to reflect on life while enjoying nature. However, in 2004, I exchanged mountains for the ocean when I became a summer exchange student to Australia. A few months after my return home, I became a mother...to a black Labrador puppy named Callie whom I raised for Leader Dogs for the Blind. When Callie returned for official schooling in the fall of my senior year, I also set foot into the “real world” by becoming a Page for the Iowa Senate. My path has led me to some unexpected places; however, I have loved every experience and I look forward to all that lies ahead.
	Nathan L. Giles Linthicum, MD North County High School College/College Plans: Cornell University   I love to try different things. In the field of athletics, I have played basketball, soccer and baseball and I am now active in horseback riding and scuba. In fact, my interest in horseback riding led to my volunteer work with the Galloppoff Therapeutic Riding program for disabled youth. I am heavily involved in my school’s robotics, math, and computer science teams and I am member of the drama, jazz and marching bands. It was in my Algebra class in middle school that I first laid hands on a TI-83 programmable graphing calculator. From that moment on I knew I wanted to pursue a career in computer science. I have participated in numerous computer science and math competitions and have worked two summers as a software developer for the Department of Defense.
	Nickolas S. Golinvaux Englewood, CO Cherry Creek High School College/College Plans: University of Michigan   I am involved in a variety of activities and enjoy having fun in numerous ways. I have played ice hockey for fourteen years and golf for six. I play at the varsity level in both of these sports. I recently started playing soccer again on a recreational team with a group of friends, an incredible experience thus far! I also have a vested interest in community service through both Key Club and Excalibur, a boys community service club that focuses on projects both within the school and outside of the school. Academically, my interests lie in a variety of subject areas ranging from Biology to Art History to French. I intend to major in Biology in college and hopefully minor in another interest of mine, leading me eventually to medical school. I spend the rest of my time with my family and hanging out with friends.
	Rachel Goss Bellaire, TX The High School for Performing and Visual Arts College/College Plans: Vassar College   Rachel is a graduate of The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston (HSPVA). Rachel’s affinity for all types of art has grown in her various studies. In 2004, she attended the Rhode Island School of Design’s Pre-College program with a focus in printmaking; this past summer she studied traditional color photography at the California College of Art. Her work has been featured in the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and at other local venues. Rachel considers volunteer work one of her other great passions. Working at The River Performing and Visual Arts Center for several years, Rachel has helped children with disabilities express themselves through art. The River has not only given her the ability to help children with autism and other difficulties, but also helped her understand how important art is to every part of society. She plans to study art and art history at Vassar.
	Caleb M. Graham Jackson, MS Jackson Academy College/College Plans: Mississippi College   I have attended the same school for 14 years, and I’m grateful to my teachers and administrators for working with me, and to my parents for sending me there. Still, I am excited about college, and am interested in film and directing. Music, theater, and drama have always interested me. Last fall, I played the male lead in “Hello, Dolly!”, and for five years I was in the Jackson Academy Band, which won our class at national competition (Bands of America) more than once. I also earned a spot in the 2004 Mississippi All-State Lions Band. I’m seeking a profession that lets me have a positive impact on a large number of people, and cinema seems an obvious way to accomplish this. I spend much of my free time watching old movies as well as new releases, and enjoy are playing guitar and piano, singing, reading (especially Vonnegut), and playing video games. I have two accomplished older brothers, parents that love me, and I am blessed.
	Shalita F. Grant Baltimore, MD Baltimore School for the Arts College/College Plans: The Juilliard School   I love the arts! From dance to photography to acting, I love it all. When I was a freshman, I joined the painting club and I loved it. Although they only let me use three colors because they said I was messy, I still enjoyed it. There is something to be said for someone who can capture life with a paintbrush. Acting is my passion but one of the best things about acting is it opens you up to so many other things. I am very interested in the world’s history, researching cultures and religions of different countries. I ran track for a few months. I love watching football (I don’t enjoy playing it; it hurts when you fall down and it just drains all my energy). When I was younger I wanted to be queen of the world but then I found out there was no such position so I would have to settle for president or a monarch of some small undiscovered island. But other than that, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, laughing and just enjoying life!
	Alexander Gribov Mayfield Heights, OH Mayfield High School College/College Plans: University of Michigan   Pursuing a degree in Business Administration
	Gregory S. Griffith Rock Springs, WY Rock Springs High School College/College Plans: United States Military Academy   In addition to academic pursuits Greg plays an active role in athletics, extracurricular activities and community service. As a student Greg is a two time State Math champion, two time Wyoming “All-State” musician, and valedictorian of his class. As an athlete Greg is a three time Wyoming 4A “All-State” Cross-Country runner, represented the USA at the Envirocare World Junior 10K Championships, and was chosen as the Southwest District Outstanding Student Athlete for 2006. As an extracurricular activities participant Greg is Senior Patrol Leader for his Boy Scout Troop, Vice President of National Honor Society, and Senior Class President. As a community servant Greg is a Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer, Cowboys Against Cancer volunteer, and an assistant coach/mentor for the MathCounts program. Finally, as a human, Greg enjoys backpacking, skiing, and pursuing religion.

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