Each high school senior who was presented a Good Citizens Award from the Chester County Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was given an opportunity to talk about some of their experiences at school and with community service, along with their future plans, as part of a ceremony held on March 9 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in West Chester.
"These students are very bright, and they are very multitalented," said Beverly Lawler, chairperson of the Good Citizens Committee.
Ralph Lintelman from B. Reed Henderson High School talked about his desire to become an oncologist, a goal he set after his aunt was diagnosed with cancer. "Since fifth grade, my goal was to become an oncologist to help others going through the same battle that my family went through," he stated. He plans to attend Penn State University to study biomedical engineering and then attend medical school.
Nina Nsereko from Bayard Rustin High School talked about her involvement with Girl Scouts and as a volunteer at Chester County Hospital, noting that her parents are her biggest support system. "I try to be supportive of the Girl Scouts and for the patients - those who do not have families to be there for them," she stated.
Lillian Feist from Bishop Shanahan High School talked about her volunteer work with Student Council and as a math tutor. "It's important for me to teach each student the material necessary to achieve their goals," she said. "Nothing makes me happier when they come to me with a big smile after they do well on an exam."
Matthew Conroy from Chester County Technical College (TC) High School - Brandywine Campus shared with the group his future goals. "I am in the Health Career Pathways program at TC Brandywine, and I want to be a nurse practitioner in the future to specialize in trauma (care)," he said. Matthew plans to attend Delaware County Community College and enroll in the nursing program.
Hannah Brostrom from Downingtown High School West plans to study computer science after graduation. "I also have a love of writing," she shared. "I just finished my first novel and hopefully someday will get that published."
Kira Rybarczyk from Kennett Consolidated High School talked about her involvement in the Society of Women Engineers Club and its annual STEM Night. "STEM Night was created to give young Kennett students an opportunity to explore what STEM is about and do hands-on activities and watch demonstrations," she stated. "As a volunteer, I worked at a build-your-own catapult station (using) popsicle sticks and marshmallows. I wanted to demonstrate that school can also be lots of fun."
"I love the outdoors and photography," said Joseph Pizolato from Octorara Junior-Senior High School. "I spend weekends getting lost in the woods." He plans to study biology with a goal of pursuing a career in wildlife preservation.
Cameo Powell from Oxford Area High School talked about her weeklong mission trip to Mexico. "It was very immersive, and I learned so much," she said. "I realized how much can be done, not only physically, but to make connections with people."
Those who were unable to attend the ceremony were Cole Walker from Avon Grove High School, Kaia Morse from Coatesville Area Senior High School and David Akins from Unionville High School.
Leave a Review