L-R: Christie Dorestant, Harold Reinoso, James Buitrago, Bryan Ayala, Kenneth Nelson, Jr.
Achieving academic excellence in high school is no small feat. There are myriad variables and stimuli that can often divert a teenager’s attention from the day-to-day task of effectively accomplishing his or her assignments. However, when students are able to buckle down and invest themselves in their learning, they not only gain insights about subject matter that advances their intellectual capacity for internalizing information and reasoning skills but also garner accolades that will support them in a more pragmatic sense. Five WHSAD Seniors have proven their mettle by attaining Advanced Regents Diplomas and New York State Academic Excellence Scholarships.
Below, recipients provide insights as to what it took to gain such recognition.
In order to be gifted with this scholarship it required determination and grit to always focus on my studies while still allowing for time to hangout with my friends and have a social life. Studies were primary for me to obtain this level and pass all of my regents with a high grade to push for this scholarship. Some advice I would give to anyone aspiring to get to the same level is to always be willing to learn not only in school but also outside of it; learning is a culture. The most challenging test for myself would have had to been geometry. Not because of being unable to understand the material but because it was the one math test that was not just based in arithmetic calculations. I am hoping to be able to attend college with a more sound mind for my resources. With the money from this scholarship I would be able to focus more on broadening my knowledge and expend less energy on worrying about how to afford college. Be diligent, in order to get an Advanced Regents diploma being a student who focuses on his classwork is the best step to take in the direction of obtaining an Advanced Regents diploma.
-Kenneth Nelson
In order to reach a level of scholarship you must remember two essential ideas: work as hard as you can and use your time wisely.
To anyone who wants a similar achievement, you must always do your work on time and work efficiently.
The most challenging test was the Trigonometry Regents because of how many types of problems there were. With the help of my teacher, I was able to pass the test with a score I was happy with.
The scholarship can open other doors to get more awards. It also can make you look good if you transfer to another college.
In order to graduate with an Advanced Regents Diploma one must work efficiently and meet deadlines. It is also important to put in extra study hours and go to teachers’ office hours for tutoring.
-Harold Reinoso