2009 Hamilton Scholars

Brady Baldwin
George Washington University

Last Updated 5/09

"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education," said American humorist Mark Twain. Brady Baldwin lives by these famous words, stating that he values learning and being challenged over just getting the best grades. His dedication to learning both inside and outside the classroom proves that he is doing just that.

At Armijo High School, Brady is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program and takes classes at the local community college. To amplify his academic experience, Brady also takes time to read The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal so he can stay up-to-date on the news, and his recent interest in the legal profession has inspired him to intern for his county's superior court.

Brady has been an entrepreneur from an early age. He and his brother Kyle gained their gardening merit badge for Boy Scouts when they grew a half-acre plot of produce that became their business, "Baldwin Farms." Today, they still sell eggs to their neighbors. In addition to their farm, Brady and Kyle began their own non-profit organization, My Own Book, which helps less fortunate kids enjoy reading. Brady sets up teams of teens to visit K-3rd grade classrooms with the charge of performing and giving away children's stories. Today, My Own Book has distributed over 20,000 books and has been nationally recognized by the Elks Club, Daughters of the American Revolution and Service Nation. His community service tally is well above 500 hours.

In addition to his entrepreneurial activities, Brady takes a leadership role in his school and community. He is historian for the National Honor Society, vice chairman for the Fairfield Youth Commission, a National Youth Venture Ambassador and an Eagle Scout. Brady has received the Hornaday Medal, the Boy Scouts' highest conservation award, which has been given fewer than 80 times in its 125 years. Somehow, between academics and community service, Brady has also found time to be captain of the varsity tennis team, a published poet/author and an aspiring filmmaker.

Success has not always come easily to Brady; at a young age he faced the challenge of overcoming a speech disability.  Early on, he made the decision that he wouldn't let his disability prevent him from succeeding. Brady's involvement in Boy Scouts, public speaking groups, and his recent achievements with the local community college's speech and debate team have shown that his determination has paid off. He is motivated by his challenges, new experiences, and helping others. "I want to work on giving others a chance to succeed by giving them a helping hand (or book!), and encourage them that they can do whatever they set their mind to," Brady says.

Steve Barillas
University of California, Berkeley
Last Updated 8/11

Steve Barillas is a superior student, leader and volunteer and has preserved over many obstacles to get there. As a boy, Steve said he struggled to fit in, but always kept his head high in an effort to be a better person. "I always respected myself enough to know that nothing anyone else had to say was as important as learning and becoming successful one day," Steve said.

Steve is currently pursuing to major in chemistry at UC Berkeley, a university ranked as having the best undergraduate chemistry program in the nation. Still stuck between joining the work force or going to graduate school for chemistry, Steve plans on one day joining the pharmaceutical industry to help facilitate the development of future medicine. Aside from studying vigorously, Steve is also in the process of trying out for Cal's Archery team which recently won 4th best college archery team in the nation in the 2011 USIAC National Outdoor Tournament in Virginia. Though both these tasks are daunting and time consuming, Steve intends on joining more organizations such as rejoining Habitat for Humanity, and engaging in different chemical internships once he has acquired more experience in the field.

Steve credits his motivation to do well in school to his family who is always telling him to take advantage of opportunities. Steve believes he has come a long way since his childhood and is now proud  not only to be the first in his linage to gain American citizenship, but also the first in his family to go to college and get a higher education. His ability to stay strong and achieve what many thought he wouldn't is Steve's greatest achievement yet.

Arthur Burkart
Wesleyan University
Last Updated 5/09

Arthur is an independent, creative, curious and adventurous teen. "Competition drives me and knowledge excites me," says Arthur when describing himself. His pursuit of wide-ranging knowledge and experience is apparent in the variety of activities he participates in. From a 43-mile hike in the mountains to starting his own newspaper, Arthur lives life to learn and knows the value of trying new things.

In school, Arthur is an excellent student. He takes one of the most challenging schedules available, while keeping his grades very high. In addition, he works hard to ensure that his courses satisfy his varied interests in politics, programming and linguistics.

Outside of the classroom, Arthur splits his time between sports and athletic pursuits, school and community service, and work. He has been a runner on the varsity track team since his freshman year, and competed at sectionals as a sophomore. He was also captain of the junior varsity soccer team for two years in a row.

As a student leader, Arthur has shown that he is dedicated to his school. As, president of his junior class and 2009-2010 Student Council President-Elect, he has been instrumental in advocating for student rights. He has logged nearly 100 hours with the National Honor Society, he edits the school newspaper, and is also active in the yearbook club, drama club and Spanish Honor Society.

Outside of school, in addition to delivering newspapers and working as a dishwasher to help support himself and his family, Arthur has volunteered a significant amount of his time. He has been an altar boy at his church since fourth grade, has volunteered at the Marshfield Area Respite Care Center for Alzheimer's patients over the summer, donates time to the Salvation Army, and during the holiday season installs lighting for a Rotary Club fundraiser.

Arthur attributes much of his success to his government teacher, his brother and his father. Without his government teacher he would have never entered student government or participated in the Laird Youth Leadership Conference and his brother and his father have helped him learn to be determined and to be confident that, even though life can be difficult, hard work will help most things turn out well in the end. With these lessons learned, he is proud that he has managed to excel academically, participate in sports, work, be a school leader and act in drama; sometimes all within the same week.

Abhiraj Chowdhury
University of California, Los Angeles
Last Updated 5/09

Abhiraj's involvement in his high school and community might best be described as superlative. He strives for the best in academics, service and extracurricular activities, and consistently comes out on top.

Not many students can point to an academic record such as that compiled by Abhiraj. He is in the top 3% of students in his class of 549, with a perfect 4.0 GPA, which has earned him a school letter in academics. Abhiraj has taken six AP courses at once and never missed being on the honor roll since entering high school. He is also proud of being named to the National Society of High School Scholars, the French Honor Society, the National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation. Not surprisingly, Abhiraj has placed highly in various academic competitions including: the State of California Robotics Competition, YES Epidemiology, the Fleet Reserve Association Americanism Essay Contest, the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest and the Optimist Essay Contest.

Abhiraj stands out not only as a strong student, but also as a strong leader. He is founder and president of both the Public Speaking Club and the Cricket Club at Foothill High School, and participates in many sports as well. But what really distinguishes Abhiraj is his passion to help those who are disadvantaged. He has served 311 hours of community service with organizations such as: Dublin & Livermore City Senior Centers, Open Hearts Kitchen, Special Olympics, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, and The March of Dimes. Abhiraj is proud of his role as a defense advocate with Tri-Valley Youth Court for troubled youth, and as a volunteer for Bay Area Prabasi, an East Indian non-profit. Because of his dedication to helping others, Abhiraj was nominated for the Prudential Spirit of Community Service Award for the 2008-2009 year.

Abhiraj maintains his skills in both piano and trombone, instruments he has played for years.  He also makes sure to take time for his family. Abhiraj's father came to America from India with six dollars in his pocket, overcoming many hardships to create a good life for Abhiraj and his family. Abhiraj attributes much of his diligence and positive attitude to his parents, and hopes to make them proud. "I am a versatile person with two strong passions: to serve the disadvantaged and explore biomedical research," Abhiraj says.

Bea Dela Cruz
Marymount College
Last Updated 5/09

Bea is a true exemplary citizen. She works hard on developing herself to become a good role model who gives back. She believes in using the knowledge gained in the classroom to help her succeed in daily life, and feels that her experiences outside the classroom contribute just as much to her learning as those inside the classroom.

In addition to taking extremely challenging courses, Bea dedicates much of her time to school organizations. She was class president as a freshman and sophomore, ASB class secretary as a junior and will be school president next year. She is a student trustee for the Jefferson Union High School District, president of the FilAm Club (Filipino American Club), and also secretary, company lawyer, and civil engagement commissioner of Jefferson High's SAGE Team. Her other involvements include the California Scholarship Federation, the Anime Club, the Drama Club and The Junior State of America.

Community service outside of school is also very important to Bea. She has volunteered for the Renew the Zoo project, the Sterling Park Community Center, Pennies for Patients, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, AIDS Emergency Funds, One Warm Coat Foundation, the Parent Teacher Student Association, election polls and Bert's Children Foundation.

Her many activities and clubs have led Bea to become an expert fundraiser. "I've tried almost anything possible to fundraise," says Bea. "Every event I have planned has made a successful outcome." While she has organized every kind of fundraiser from car washes to candy sales, Bea's most notable accomplishment in this field was the $1,560 that she raised for Bert's Children Foundation, a shelter for abused homeless children. The funds made it possible for her to start an art class for the kids!

Bea's motivation comes from within. She longs to lead a happy and productive life, and has found that volunteering and working hard in school help her reach that goal. "I love to volunteer...simple gestures like that brighten my day and I feel great, I feel like ME."

Nathanael Franks
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Last Updated 8/11

Nathanael's zeal for challenges and his self-honed fitness allow him to simultaneously seize opportunities, devote time to being a global citizen and eventually become a neurosurgeon. Nathanael spent the summer of 2011 studying the Classics in Greece and Turkey and subsequently retracing the Apostle Paul's journey from Antioch, Turkey to Rome, Italy.  He dedicated the month of July to learning conversational Arabic near Beirut and volunteering at Christian camps for Lebanese children. Deeply drawn to family values, Nathanael ventured to the homes of hospitable strangers, truly overwhelmed by their kindnesses. Embracing provincial ways, Nathanael hiked, climbed, swam, drove a team of horses and jogged. An epic memory is perhaps worth more than a possession.  While touring the ancient Greek town of Marathon, Nathanael recognized the chance to run the original 42 kilometer marathon race to Athens and despite the heat, the fatigue, the pain, the rough roads, the smoggy congestion, and the violent 2011 riots - he finished!
 
In 2007, the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange granted Nathanael a scholarship for his first extended voyage to a country with a different language. He absolutely adored his host family and he managed, with diligent effort to eventually thrive in his college prep courses at the German gymnasium. Nathanael also joined handball and tennis teams, ran numerous half-marathons around the country, and learned to play the fourteen feet long Swiss alphorn – dreams came to life!  Nathanael continues to trot around campus in his lederhosen, considering them as practical as a pair of jeans. Enduring friendships were forged abroad and these continue to bring overseas guests to his Pacific Northwest home.
 
Graduating as a high school valedictorian, Nathanael had supplemented the available AP courses with classes at the community college.  Nathanael's commitment to academics had inspired him to start an Academic Decathlon Club at his rural high school, which has now competed twice at the national level. Presently Nathanael competes in the track and field decathlon event for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. He and his fellow decathletes set a NCAA Division I record, April 2011, for being the first three American freshmen from one program to score over 7000 points. Dedicated in the classroom as well, Nathanael's 20 credit hours coursework included honors organic chemistry where he was the only freshman. As a physics major with a 4.0 GPA, Nathanael enjoys studying the universe in multiple ways including assisting Dr. Zhang of China with cosmochemistry research his sophomore year.
 
Nathanael volunteers for the International Culture Team and the Conversation Club. He meets weekly with foreign students, helping them acclimate to American life. He enjoys time with others from all backgrounds and beliefs in the USA as well as abroad. Nathanael labored in an Amish community in Iowa during his 2011 spring break. He has learned that one finally understands one's home when one leaves it. Nathanael's presentations to first generation college-bound students at the local high schools near Fayetteville highlight the joy of making the most of every opportunity. Go for the gold!

Kelly Gagnon
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

Last Updated 5/09

Kelly Gagnon is a high achiever who is focused on being successful, but she is also dedicated to her community and always finds a way to put helping people first. "The feeling received when you help someone can be so self-satisfying that it pushes you to do better in everything and all that you do," says Kelly. To many students, balancing a busy schedule like hers seems impossible, but Kelly finds a way to do it all without compromising success in any area of her life.

Kelly says that academics are a high priority in her life. She ranks 13th in her class of 325 and has challenged herself with honors classes plus AP Statistics and Environmental Science. She is a member of the National Honor Society, and takes pride in her role as lieutenant governor for all Key Clubs in her district. Kelly's active involvement in National Honor Society, Key Club, Beta Club and Mu Alpha Theta has resulted in her running fundraisers, tutoring peers and helping to develop a program to inform her fellow students of the tragedies that are happening in Uganda.
 
While Kelly takes on many school related activities, she always makes time for community service. She is an active volunteer at her local hospital, accumulating 60 hours of service so far. Kelly particularly enjoyed her experience with Wings of Eagles Therapeutic Ranch for handicapped children. Most recently, Kelly is excited about her role on the committee for Youth United, an arm of Habitat for Humanity.

Kelly credits much of her determination to her strong, secure family and the strength she finds in herself to succeed. "With an optimistic attitude, determination and an open heart anything is possible," Kelly said. "I have come to realize that it isn't enough to think positively; in order to truly be successful you must put those thoughts into actions." Kelly's ambitious mentality is what has allowed her to balance everything in her life well and to become the leader she always wanted to be.

Elena De Jesus Hernandez

George Fox Univesity

Last Updated 8/11

Student, provider, leader, and mentor are just a few roles Elena De Jesus Hernandez takes on in her everyday life. As a responsible young woman, she makes time to take advantage of any opportunities that will better herself and her family. "Doors open up daily and I believe it's up to me to enter through them before they are closed," said Elena.

In high school, Elena was in the top 3% of her class, while taking AP classes. Determined to attend college, she applied to receive the prestigious full-ride Gates Millennium Scholarship, which will support her education for up to ten years. As an undergraduate at George Fox Univesity, Elena is more than convinced that her ultimate goal is to become a secondary teacher and eventually become a college professor. She is currently majoring in sociology and social work. Elena believes that with these majors she will be able to work with children, teens, and parents who grow up with limited resources, those who live in poor communities. Elena plans to receive a doctoral degree in education and work with the organization called Teach for America, an organization that places teachers in a low-income community to help improve the quality of public education.

Elena is involved in her school with the Connections Program, mentoring high school students as well as Little Bruins Program, mentoring a third grade student in the classroom. Elena enjoys taking time off to visit her mentees "it's so inspiring to work one-on one with students. It's a constant reminder that I can make a difference," she says. "Its' also rewarding to see that the mentee parents trust you to be a good influence in their children's life" she adds. Elena hopes to remain their mentors for a long time. Furthermore, Elena is excited to start her sophomore year as the Latino Heritage Club Secretary as she will organize events, forums, and other activities for the Newberg community as well as for her college community.

Every night before Elena goes to bed she takes a moment to reflect about her life. She reminds herself where she came from and is thankful for all the opportunities and privileges she has living in the United States. She says her family and friends have been her biggest support and motivation, however Elena said, "Above all though, it is up to me to motivate myself everyday."

Cindy Hsu
Harvard University
Last Updated 5/09

Artist, entrepreneur, and high-achieving student are just a few roles that describe Cindy Hsu. "I am artistic and very ambitious. I really enjoy working and interacting with children and my peers," Cindy says.

Cindy is a diligent student with a perfect GPA and takes a full load of AP courses. She has become an entrepreneur at her school, launching two highly active community service clubs. Cindy and her friends started The Children's Relief Coalition to raise money for underprivileged children. As president of the Red Cross Club, she helps educate her peers and community on how to prepare for, and respond to, disasters and other emergencies. She is currently vice president of both the Interact Club and the Art Club, and has recently taken on the position of treasurer for the 2010 Class Student Council. Cindy has also been involved in the Peer Leaders program, Amnesty International and the Environmental Club for more than two years.

Art is one of Cindy's greatest passions and she spends a lot of her time outside of school working on her pieces. She has received numerous awards for her creativity, including being recognized by her school's art show, the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League, The Women's Club and the Palomar District No. 24 Arts Festival.

Cindy enjoys giving back to her community. For the past few summers, she has volunteered with the Summer Reading Program at her community library. Last year, Cindy enjoyed using her artistic talents to teach young children art at the Creative Arts Camp in Carlsbad. Volunteering at the Boy and Girls Club and tutoring middle school kids have also been ways in which Cindy contributes to her community.

Cindy's goal of going to a four-year college has motivated her to do well in school. Her parents want her to achieve the education they didn't receive, so that she can have many options for her life. The many contributions she has made to her school and her community have fulfilled her main aspiration of becoming a leader. "My capability as a leader shows that I am able to take charge and be innovative," she says.

Connie Lim
University of Washington
Last Updated 8/11

Connie Lim is an extraordinary student, musician and entrepreneur. "I actively participate in all that I can and am eager to learn new things at every opportunity," Connie said. Connie is always striving to do more, better and credits her strong spirituality as her motivation to do so.

During her high school career, Connie was top student at her school, always taking AP courses and keeping a high GPA. In order to gain more educational experiences, Connie also participated in the Running Start Program, allowing her to take vigorous college courses at Bellevue Community College. Her strong academics in high school allowed her to enter the University of Washington as a sophomore, where she is now pursuing a degree in Finance and Entrepreneurship. With an aptitude for taking charge and creating change, Connie hopes to one day start her own business revolving around fashion and design.  She hopes to find her own niche in the business and to help support local designers and art-goers. Connie especially values the importance of living a full and balanced lifestyle.

At school, Connie is a member of the Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity and served as her pledge class secretary and pledge educator. She is also on the Executive Committee of the Lavin Entrepreneurship Program for the Foster School of Business, a previous intern for the Alexander Hamilton Friends Association, and a branch intern for Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. She is also a graduate of the Puget Sound Leadership Institute, which has fostered her interest in women leadership and non-profit work.

Connie's spare time involves her music. She plays the harp and piano, and loves to sing. Connie and her family overcame a challenge in 2003 when her father was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She credits her motivation to get through her challenges and succeed to her never-ending spirituality. "I may not be the coolest person in the world, or have tons of money to spend, but I have compassion and love because God showed me that first," Connie said.

Chris McAuley
Ball State University
Last Updated 5/09

Chris describes himself as friendly, always busy, interested in sports, and fond of pizza, and Stephen King books. This may make him sound like an average high school student, but a careful observer would see a diligent student, leader, and mentor. "I'm not sure if world peace is possible, but I try to put my best foot forward and try to instill a more peaceful community," Chris says.

When it comes to scholastic achievements, Chris is decidedly not average. He ranks first in a class of 318 students and maintains the highest possible GPA at his school at 4.35. He jumps at the opportunity to challenge himself through honors classes plus one college course per quarter at Wright State University, where he can further his interest in mathematics. He is proudest of winning various math competitions in the last few years and being one of the 20 students selected to participate in the Super Computer Institute at Ohio State University in the summer of 2008.

Chris believes school isn't just about getting the grades; it's about getting involved. He has been elected treasurer of Student Congress, taken on various roles with the Spanish Club, and served on the prom committee. He shows enormous potential as a participant in the Academic Challenge Varsity Team, which consists of competitions involving history, math, literature, government and science. Chris is also proud to be a member of the National Honor Society.

Outside of school, Chris likes to involve himself in his community. He has gained over 178 hours of service with Boy Scouts of America, where he has taken on the roles of troop guide and scribe, as well as attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He has spent 80 hours with his youth ministry, and some 50 hours with other organizations that help youth, the elderly, the homeless and families in need.

With all of Chris's achievements, it might be hard to believe that he has struggled at one time in his life. When he was younger he experienced speech problems, but was able to overcome them, move forward, and participate in a program for gifted students. Chris is motivated by his earlier difficulties and says he now appreciates all that he is able to do. "I strive to improve myself every day, and improve the lives of others around me," Chris said.

Caitlin Ogren
Notre Dame University

Last Updated 5/09

Caitlin aspires to be the type of person who brightens the lives of those around her. With her constant involvement in school activities and her passion to help others, Caitlin is becoming the individual she has always wanted to be.

Above all, Caitlin wants to be known as a leader who positively influences those around her. In addition to maintaining a strong academic record, she was recently chosen to attend the National Student Leadership Conference and her various leadership positions in school have included secretary of Students Against Destructive Decisions and junior class representative for the National Honor Society. As a senior she will be president of the Student Council.

Along with school involvement, Caitlin makes a point of being involved in her community. She volunteers at church events, acts as a peer tutor, has raised money for needy local community programs, and has taken part in the "Minnesota's Greatest Generation" project, where she spent time with a senior citizen and captured his life story in writing for generations to come.

Caitlin is especially proud of an organization she and her sister created two years ago. They began Lidz for Kidz in order to donate hats (which they knit themselves) to kids undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatments resulting in hair loss. With her sister now in college, Caitlin runs the organization mostly on her own. Since September 2007 she has accumulated more than 400 hours of service to Lidz for Kidz.

Caitlin's biggest achievement has been balancing it all. She has found time to devote herself to the important things: her friends, family, academics, extracurricular activities, piano and community service. With two successful siblings ahead of her, Caitlin is motivated not only to accomplish great things, but also to carve out an identity of her own. "As I look to the future, I see myself at a university far away from home, traveling and experiencing new things, in hope of finding the answer to what truly makes me different, that is, what makes me simply me," Caitlin said.

Avni Patel
New York University
Last Updated 8/11

Avni dreams big. Her goal in life is to embrace those dreams and do what she can to reach them. "Everyone tells me... my dreams are too big. Whenever I am told this, it motivates me to prove them wrong. I want to succeed and make my dreams come true, so that I can be a role model to someone else and show them to dream big and they too will succeed."

In high school, Avni ranked first in her class with a 4.3 GPA and took many rigorous courses and was extremely involved in her school and community. With her hard work and determination she received the Presidential Scholarship to New York University, the university's most coveted scholarship and honor.  The academic rigor of NYU and the vast opportunities available in both NYU and New York City have driven Avni to excel in a city of diversity and work toward her goal of working in multicultural environments to better the lives of others. She is double majoring in Politics and Economics and plans to minor in Romance languages. This unique combination of academic pursuits will allow Avni to go to law school. As a lawyer, she would like to provide legal aid to low-income families battling human rights issues throughout the world and one day, work in the UN. She believes everyone, no matter the race, religion, or sexual orientation deserve the same, simple rights and those who violate these rights need to be punished.

Avni tries to be an involved student at her university. She is a member of her student council at the NYU, a freshman representative for the Rubin Hall Council, as well as a tutor to low income families in Harlem. Next year, she will participate in NYC Cares, an organization that provides community service volunteers with an opportunity to better New York City. This past year, she participated in a project to provide housing for the homeless and get people off the streets. Community Service is an important part of her dreams and vision for her future. She believes through service, a community and its people can persevere any obstacle. With the help of volunteers, grief stricken areas and people in the face of adversity can return to their former glories.

Avni believes nothing is ever concrete; you can always change things and make them better. There may be a lot of problems in the world, but there is nothing we can't do to fix it. We can make the world a better place. And that's what she plans to do. She says "I want to see the world and I want to make someone's life a little easier. I want to be different than the people I know because that's what makes us beautiful." And its this beauty in people that assures Avni that people can make a difference in the world, and no matter how small it is, it is still a difference.

Meredith Roberts
Washington and Lee University
Last Updated 8/11

Meredith has big dreams and knows that she needs to work hard to get there. She realizes that life has its ups and downs and that circumstances can change, but she also knows that she can overcome a lot. "One thing has stayed the same through everything, my dream," says Meredith.

In high school, Meredith led her class, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, while taking a difficult load of honors and AP classes. With this determination she was able to receive a Questbridge Match to Washington and Lee University, providing her with a full-ride scholarship for her 4-year undergraduate education. The academic rigor and networking opportunities at Washington and Lee have pushed Meredith to excel and work toward her future goals. She is majoring in Psychology and plans to receive a minor in Poverty Studies. This unique combination will set Meredith up to work with low-income teens as a psychologist. She is excited to explore a variety of careers in the realm of young adult mental health. Meredith is the type of person who sees a problem and wants to do everything she can to help fix it. She has seen people around her struggle through their teenage years and yearns to be the person who can help them. This past year she was deemed a peer counselor, a rare position for a freshman, and is excited to be there to support her peers.

Meredith is also involved in her school as a student DJ, Generals Christian Fellowship small group leader, a member of her sorority Chi Omega, and her passion at college, community service. Next year she will be a part of Bonner Scholars, a group of students who are committed to completing 1,800 hours of community service over their four years of college. During her freshman year she volunteered for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Head Start, she tutored at a local Middle School, she read to Kindergarteners, and participated in various days of service. Giving back to her community is an integral part of her vision for her future. She realizes the importance of a community of support in the success of an individual, and finds ways to create this support for those around her. Next year she plans to broaden her scope of volunteering by working with a battered women's shelter and the local social services office.

To Meredith it's simple; "I like to help people. If there is something I can do to make another person smile or make their life just a bit easier, what's better than that?" With her empathetic nature and positive attitude she is bound to help many.

Mitchell Sauve
Central Michigan University
Last Updated 5/09

At the age of 12 Mitchell Sauve was adopted from a Russian orphanage, immersed in the United States culture, and faced with the challenge of learning English. In three months, Mitchell learned English and became a straight A student. With such a significant change in lifestyle, Mitchell is the epitome of what it means to take advantage of new opportunities.

Mitchell is ranked third in his class of 154 students and has a 3.9 GPA. Along with his quick advancement in the English Language, Mitchell excels in challenging math and science classes. He is involved in the National Honor Society, he volunteers at a variety of schools functions and has also been a member of the 4-H club for five years, acting as Treasurer and taking the lead on service projects.
 
When Mitchell isn't at school, he is involving himself in his community. He has spent many hours as a Boy Scout and Eagle Scout, running canned food drives, helping with trail maintenance, and sharing his passion for soccer with youth. As a scout, he has taken on various leadership roles for his troop, acting as patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader. Mitchell also works hard to save money for college by working every summer. He has spent the last few summers he worked at an ice cream shop and weeded and planted at a community garden.

Mitchell's motivation to learn English in 3 months is the same kind of motivation that has helped him achieve greatness in school and his community. "I am mostly self-motivated; if I feel something is very important and needs to be done, I do it," Mitchell said.

Bradley Shane
University of Arizona
Last Updated 08/11

When Bradley moved to the United States from Johannesburg, South Africa ten years ago, he knew he would have the opportunity to have a promising future. Now, at the age of 19 Bradley has accomplished more than he ever thought possible.

In high school, he was an active member of National Honors Society and Spanish Honors Society, and a strong leader for the Interact community service club. Bradley was very passionate about helping the community as he volunteered on Sundays at Phoenix Children's Hospital and worked to improve the health of premature babies as a member of the March of Dimes Chain Reaction Youth Leadership Council. He graduated in the top 10% of his high school class and received the James Baird Foundation Scholarship and The Wildcat Excellence Award to The University of Arizona.

Bradley is majoring in Neuroscience and plans to add a minor in Psychology. His desire to learn more about this field is shown by his involvement in the Neuroscience Club and his work as a Research Lab Assistant in a neuroscience lab. In the lab, he measures the neurological and behavioral responses in moths when introducing them to various scents. He hopes to pursue his studies in the health care profession and is dedicated to ensuring equal healthcare opportunities for all individuals. In the future, he wants to help citizens of South Africa who are struggling with the aids epidemic. Bradley said, "By enriching the lives of others, I feel a sense of fulfillment and my life is equally enriched,"

At the University of Arizona, Bradley was involved in the Freshman Class Council, in which he planned and volunteered at university events and increased freshman involvement on campus. This year he will be a liaison for campus clubs as a student government club advocate.  He enjoys being a leader for potential honors students and promoting the University of Arizona as an Honors College Ambassador. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Omega, a community service fraternity. One of his favorite hobbies is running, which he shows as a run leader for the Wildcat Running Club and numerous half marathons that he has run.

Overall, Bradley shows amazing diligence and passion to learn, help the less fortunate, and grow as a person. Bradley has faced hardships in his life, but has overcome them with the comfort and motivation in his strong relationship with his mother and sister. Bradley states that the South African community is always in his thoughts and that leader Nelson Mandela has especially motivated him to never lose sight of his goals, regardless of obstacles that may lie ahead. "In my journey through life I strive to live each day to the fullest, taking a positive path in the direction of my aspirations," Bradley said.

Carter-Thaxton Smith
University of Arizona
Last Updated 5/09

Carter is a driven and committed person who loves learning and discovery. Every activity he undertakes, whether a school course, astronomy research or his Eagle Scout project, he completes with the utmost care and precision.

Carter has several accomplishments of which he feels especially proud. Foremost is his Eagle Scout project. He earned the coveted rank at the early age of 12 by organizing an astronomy star party with a wide range of accommodations for children residing at the Arizona Schools for the Deaf and the Blind. Second, is his ability to have a positive impact on his community; as recognized by several honors including the Jack Horkheimer Service Award from the National Astronomical League. Third, he is proud of his research on light pollution, and related work in creating awareness of light pollution, as part of the International Year of Astronomy.

Outside of Boy Scouts and his astronomical studies, Carter dedicates himself to his school and community. He serves as a student representative on the school site council, participated in the Science Olympiad and finds other ways to contribute such as fundraising and serving as a teacher's assistant. Carter also volunteers at his church and takes part in several committees for the Order of the Arrow, a service association of the Boy Scouts.

Such success could not always have been predicted for Carter. In middle school, he was warned by many people that, due to learning disabilities, he would need five years to complete high school. Now, as a junior, not only is he on track to graduate, but his grades are outstanding, he takes AP courses, and, as seen above, he spends an enormous amount of time studying outside of school and working to improve his community. This is a young man who knows where he wants to go and won't let anything stop him from getting there!

Hannah Smythe
University of Pennsylvania
Last Updated 5/09

"I've always been determined and independent, and my characteristic perseverance has motivated me to always try my hardest to succeed in everything I do," said Hannah, and her record certainly proves this all to be true. Whether it is school, work, or extracurricular activities, Hannah quietly achieves excellence in everything she does

In school, Hannah strives to always succeed. She is ranked number one in her class, maintains an unweighted 4.0 GPA and has won a total of six school departmental awards in Spanish, Science, English and Social Studies. She scored a 2200 on her SAT and has achieved National Merit recognition for her PSAT scores.

Hannah is also very committed to serving her school. She devotes much of her school service time to Schools for Schools, an organization dedicated to helping kids in civil war-torn Uganda receive an education. Serving as president since sophomore year, she has conceived of, organized and executed many fundraisers. The most exceptional examples of fundraisers she has led include a four month long intra-city book drive that collected 15,541 books for students in Uganda and two highly successful New Year's Eve benefit concerts. Beyond her work with Schools for Schools, Hannah is also president of the International Club, captain of the Sailing Team, president of Students Against Destructive Decisions, and an active member of National Honor Society, Link Crew, Spanish Travel Club and French Travel Club.

Outside of school, Hannah spends much of her time volunteering and working to save for college. Since September of 2007, Hannah has logged over 250 hours of community service by tutoring struggling middle school and high school students and volunteering for various organizations around her community. During the school year, Hannah works a few days a week after school at a hardware store, and during the summer she spends 11 hours a day, five days a week working at the hardware store and teaching sailing. Beyond work and volunteer commitments, Hannah finds time to participate on the varsity sailing team, which she has been on since freshman year.

Hannah's fierce independence drives her to succeed. She makes it very clear that she doesn't want to have to rely on someone else to support her. "More than anything, I want to be able to go to college and get a fantastic education so that I can support myself."

Erika So
University of California Berkely
Last Updated 5/09

Erika takes each day as an opportunity to learn something new and does her best to reflect what she has learned on others. She makes the most out of every day, cramming in anything that involves helping her school and community. "I've learned that I can make a difference and I try to help out wherever there is need, so that I can brighten someone else's day," Erika says.

The Girl Scouts of America organization is where Erika has found herself and her passion to serve those in need. Her membership is at the Ambassador Level, as a result of volunteering over 1,500 hours of community service with the Girl Scouts since September 2007. One of her greatest Scouting experiences has been volunteering for three years in the Golden Gate Bridging, a program which welcomes Junior Girl Scouts to the Cadette level. In 2008, she also had the pleasure of traveling to Costa Rica to take part in three service projects: painting for a youth community center, constructing a recycling center and building a community garden with soil from the rain forest.

Erika applies herself with equal diligence when it comes to academics. Along with being fourth in her glass and achieving a high GPA, she takes extra courses at Los Medanos College so she can make the most out of her school day. Her top priorities also include student leadership: she has been class president for two years, and vice president for one. Music is another important area in her life. She has been active in the school's jazz ensemble, and as drill instructor for the Pirates Marching Show Band, she is recognized throughout her community as a skilled performer. Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta and California Scholarship Federation are other clubs in which she is an active member. Erika was named Most Valuable Player on her school's women's varsity golf team.

Beyond school, Erika has accomplished some amazing achievements. Along with her Silver Award in Girl Scouts, Erika has been inducted into the Cookie Hall of Fame for selling over 1,200 boxes of cookies in three consecutive years.  In 2008, Erika, holding the title of Miss Teen Pittsburg, won the Leadership Award at the 2008 Miss Teenage California pageant. Also, at the F.I.R.S.T. Robotics UC Davis Regional competition, Erika's team received the Rookie Inspiration Award.

As in the Girl Scout promise, Erika vows to make the world a better place. Her family's hard work to get by has made her thankful for all that she has gained, and for all the opportunities she has been given. "Each adventure presented to me has given me the tools to improve myself," Erika says. Her outstanding spectrum of service and educational achievements proves that Erika takes nothing for granted.

Georgia Stasinopoulos
Harvard University
Last Updated 5/08

Georgia describes herself as having an "overwhelming desire to master my surroundings and affect them in a positive way. This desire," says Georgia, "transformed into a natural sense of leadership."

In school, Georgia works hard to master all the subjects she pursues in school--her dedication is reflected in her 4.0 GPA. Her commitment to schoolwork relates directly to her character, she explains. "My personality is very easy to define, through the words of Abraham Lincoln: 'By all means, do not say "If I can"-say "I will."'"

In addition to succeeding in her everyday classes, Georgia  has received numerous recognitions for her writing, including a first place poetry award and a second place nonfiction award from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in New York. In 2008, she was ranked one of the top 12 teenage poets in New York City by the Alan G. Ross Memorial Project. Since seventh grade, she has participated each year in National Novel Writing Month.
Debate is another passion for Georgia. She is assistant captain for the Lincoln Douglas Debate Team at her school, placing well at many local and national competitions. Her efforts culminated this year in qualifying for National Championships, where she had the opportunity to represent her school at a national level. The final outcome found her ranked eleventh in the nation overall as a junior.

"I have always had the tendency to dedicate myself to a variety of projects and activities because of my unchecked curiosity and desire to learn," says Georgia. Among other activities, Georgia founded National Novel Writing Month Writers Club, is a staff member of the school newspaper, is a member of the National Honor Society, and participates actively in such cultural activities as the Stuyvesant Chamber Choir, the Hellenic Dancers at her church, and her community center's annual oratorical festival.

Eileen Ung
Stanford University

Last Updated 5/09

Eileen does everything she can to make the most of her high school career. Whether that be taking the most demanding classes possible, learning Chinese during her free time or taking 0 period symphonic winds, she is always striving to expand her horizons and challenge herself in every way.

"Challenging" seems like an understatement when you look at Eileen's academic schedule. Not only is she in the top 1% of almost 1000 students in her high school class, but she is also a member of the PACE (Program of Additional Curricular Experiences) program, the most rigorous magnet program.

Another passion for Eileen is the Chinese language and culture. Not only does she attend extracurricular classes, she also participates enthusiastically in all the Chinese cultural activities offered to her, including calligraphy competitions, school fairs and more. Her favorite activity is the Chinese History and Culture Club; she loves learning about her heritage and has won first place in the Chinese History and Culture Competition three times.

Notable among the many school activities Eileen pursues are cross country, speech and debate, mock trial, California Scholarship Federation and National Honor Society.

Eileen also puts a lot of effort into helping her community. The Alphabet Soup Club, which she founded, hosts "activity" days at the local library where members read to kids and do arts and crafts with them. Eileen has also logged over 200 hours of community service with the Long Beach Aquarium's VolunTEEN program, receiving the Sea Star Award for excellent volunteer service.

Eileen is motivated by her own drive to reach her goals, but also by the hard work and determination of her parents. "My goal in life is to become someone my parents can be proud of…I want to be successful when I grow up, I want to make a difference in this world, I want to impact society," Eileen says.

Mackenzie Welch
Swarthmore University
Last Updated 5/09

Hanna Wilson
Central College
Last Updated 8/11

Hanna has always had a passion to serve people by using her own life experiences to help those around her.  After her father's serious car accident in 2005 Hanna's family has faced many challenges. Hanna says, "Adversity has never stood in my way, it is what stands behind me pushing me forward to do more."

During high school Hanna had the desire to succeed not only in academics but also in her many extra curricular activities.  These combined passions followed Hanna to Central College where she received the Dean's Scholarship, Central Fund Scholarship, Iowa Tuition Grant, and many others.  Central has provided Hanna with many opportunities in her academics and extra curricular activities. Hanna is majoring in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Middle School Education. Hanna spent many hours volunteering with two first grade classrooms in a Pella elementary school.  She also spent time tutoring a fifth grade student.

Hanna says, "Central is more than just a school, it's a home, a home to the Central family."  Hanna was fortunate enough to get to know her advisor and professor, Dr. Jen Diers near the beginning of the school year.  As the semester progressed Hanna learned of Jen's work with orphans in Sierra Leone, West Africa.  In May of 2011 Hanna traveled with Jen, two Central graduates, and a family friend of Jen's to Sierra Leone.  While in country the team worked with the children at the orphanage as well as reaching out to the people of Freetown (the capitol of Sierra Leone).  Hanna says, "I would say the most important thing I learned after meeting the people of Sierra Leone is it doesn't matter where you come from, what you do or don't have, or what life experiences you have been through… you can still make a difference in the lives of others. These people have the biggest hearts and will never cease to amaze me."

Since returning home from Sierra Leone, Hanna has had time to reflect on the past two years of her life since becoming a 'Hammie'.  "When we got to Seattle last summer I knew I was with people who had similar passions.  We all have the desire to help and we have the ability to help. I believe that in the end what it comes down to is a saying I learned at a leadership conference, we must because we can."
Hanna's future goals are to use her education at Central College to continue to fight for the orphans in Sierra Leone and any other people she feels called to help along the way.

Jenelle Yee
University of Nevada Reno
Last Updated 5/09

Jenelle sees her high school career as an opportunity to get involved in the community "Caring for the community goes hand in hand with volunteering, which is very close to my heart," says Jenelle.

So far, Jenelle's high school experience has been most influenced by her service to the community. Of all her service activities, Jenelle cites her positions as Key Club district secretary and Key Club lieutenant governor as her most influential. During her term, Jenelle presided over a board of liaisons consisting of students from over 600 schools throughout California, Nevada and Hawaii, and led 13 district high schools in a fundraiser to support pediatric trauma programs.

Other organizations benefiting from Jenelle's involvement have included the March of Dimes, March for Babies, Special Olympics and many more. She has accumulated over 200 service hours in such efforts since September 2007.

In school, Jenelle is an outstanding student who maintains a strong GPA, takes honors and AP courses and is heavily involved in school activities. Some of the organizations she participates in include Nevada Youth Legislative Issues Forum, varsity tennis, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), National Honor Society, Giving Circle; Youth Philanthropist, Diverse Student Union, Rock Climbing Club and the Newspaper Club.

Many of Jenelle's outstanding achievements have been recognized by prestigious honors. She was chosen as a Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Conference Ambassador, took third place in parliamentary procedure at the FBLA state competition and received the Hope of America award from the Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation. She has also placed in regional competition as a doubles tennis player.

Jenelle names the opportunity to participate in Key Club as the reason for much of her personal growth. "Key Club has been my motivating factor in high school," she says, "since it is the one organization that allows its member the opportunities to build character, develop leadership skills, be inclusive and perform service in the home, school and community."

Zachary (Zack) Zlatev
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Last Updated 8/11

Zack is an internationally focused, socially aware individual who is still exploring his wide interests ranging from environmental stewardship to finance. Driven, Zack is always looking for new opportunities, and is excited to see where his college career will take him.

Zack graduated from high school in the top 1% of his class with 11 Advanced Placement classes, 7 Florida Atlantic University courses, and an International Baccalaureate diploma under his belt. Earning the Robertson Scholarship, a merit-based full ride and leadership development program, Zack is a dual-student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University. Zack plans on double majoring in Business Administration and Economics at UNC and earning a Certificate in Energy and the Environment at Duke. Zack is unsure what his career plans are; however, he hopes that these academic focuses offers him a foundation for creating meaningful professional goals that also position him to serve others.

In high school, Zack excelled in debate, placing top 8 in various national and international tournaments, and committed his remaining time to environmental service as a Pine Jog Fellow through Florida Atlantic University and Pine Jog Environmental Center. Zack is continuing these interests in college while exploring other service and professional interests, as well. Zack is involved as a policy analyst for the economic development center of the Roosevelt Institute, a student-run think tank, is green chair for his fraternity, Sigma Phi Epsilon, and serves as a member on the Greek Sustainability council and the Public Service and Outreach committee. Last Spring, Zack was the campus marketing representative for the clothing brand, Vineyard Vines. In the Fall, he looks to find a marketing position with another entrepreneurial firm.
    
Working with Zack's debate partner from high school, who he placed 5th in the International Public Policy Forum in New York, Zack presented a report they co-wrote for the Roosevelt Institute on strategic investment in Pakistan's textile industry at George Washington University's Defense, Diplomacy, and Development conference. Zack is spending his first college summer in New Orleans as the development intern for the St. Bernard Project, a nonprofit that rebuilds homes and offers health and wellness services for victims of Katrina. Zack loved this opportunity to combine gaining valuable business experience at an innovative start-up with the service aspect of helping bring home families who lost their home by an act of nature and lack the means to rebuild without support.

Although unsure of exactly what his future holds, Zack is in touch with his heritage. Coming from a family of German Jews and Bulgarian Communist dissenters, Zack is committed to expanding political and economic opportunities for all people after growing up hearing stories of how his family lacked them. Zack also has plans to complete service work on six continents before graduating college to question his beliefs and expand his own framed perspective on the world.