Top 10 Students In West Aurora District 129 Class Of 2022 Announced

Aurora IL

05 April, 2022

4:30 PM

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AURORA, IL — With a few months left until graduation, the top 10 academic students of the Class of 2022 have been announced Monday, kicking off the celebration of this year's graduating class. As the top students in their class, the 10 teenagers have the highest grade-point averages in their class. Not only do the students perform highly in class, but many are also involved in a range of extracurricular activities, from activities to athletics. "We want to congratulate our Top 10 students, their families, teachers, and all who have guided and supported their journeys while in District 131," officials said in a news release. To recognize the students, school officials put together an announcement highlighting each student's graduation plans, extracurricular activities and answers to a few questions. Take a look at what the students said in District 131's announcement. Christian Madera (Valedictorian) Old stomping grounds: O'Donnell Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet AcademyPost-graduation plans: Studying Computer Science or Computer Engineering. Considering Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, North Central College, Loyola University Chicago, University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Stanford UniversityClubs/activities: Football, Track & Field, Wrestling, National Honors Society, Science National Honors Society, Jazz Ensemble, Latin Jazz Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Student Board MemberI was most proud of myself when… "I realized I achieved my goals while still allowing myself to enjoy high school, live life, and just be a teenager."Advice to my younger self: "I would like to tell my younger self to embrace myself and life for all the shortcomings and imperfections that there will be. You gotta live life and not hold the weight of the world on your shoulders."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My own mother, who through her actions and sacrifices has always taught me and exemplified scholarship, hard work, and good character. I would be lost without everything she has done for me. Secondly, the most influential teacher I've had the pleasure of learning from, Ms. Bakas. She has been and continues to be the most intelligent, caring, and dedicated teacher who consistently motivates and deeply believes in all of her students. 3 years since I've had her as a teacher she continues to be a lasting role model for excellence."Favorite high school memory: "My favorite memory of high school is collectively just the Fall season of my senior year. Being drum major in the marching band, playing varsity football, doing clubs, going to homecoming, and hanging out with friends. It reminds me how grateful I am that I did high school to the fullest." Daisy Ruiz (Salutatorian) Old stomping grounds: Independence Elementary (VVCUSD 365), Bardwell Elementary, Waldo Middle SchoolPost-graduation plans: Studying Communications. Considering Bucknell University, Syracuse University, University of Oregon, University of DenverClubs/activities: Tennis, Bowling, Scholastic Bowl, Marching Band, EA Ambassadors, Science National Honors Society, National Honors SocietyI was most proud of myself when... "I made Wind Ensemble my junior year. Ever since I joined band in the fifth grade, it was my goal to make it to the top band at East and I did just that."Advice to my younger self: "I would go back and tell myself to join more things my freshman year. There are an endless amount of experiences you can have when you become involved, and I wish I would have known that a lot earlier in my high school career."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My sophomore year chemistry teacher, Mr. Taylor. He saw my potential and pushed me to be the best I could be, even when I was doubting myself. The enthusiasm and love he has for his students is both inspiring and admirable."Favorite high school memory: "My favorite memories were made during my time on the girls' tennis team. The people I met and the experience I gained being on the team really made high school enjoyable." Lorena Alvarez Old stomping grounds: Allen Elementary, O'Donnell Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet AcademyPost-graduation plans: Studying Economics. Considering University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign and Chicago), Case Western Reserve University, Northeastern UniversityClubs/activities: Student Board Member, DECA (President), National Honor Society (President), Marching Band (Drum Major), Concert Band, Science National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor SocietyI was most proud of myself when… "I was chosen to represent my peers and voice their experiences and achievements through my position as Student Board Member."Advice to my younger self: "I would tell myself to enjoy the next four years of life and to never be scared to take a chance, whatever it may be, because nothing is certain."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My entire family has always been my support system, but my older brother has had the biggest impact on my aspirations in life. He always taught me not to settle for less and pushed me to apply myself in everything I do."Favorite high school memory: "Going to the Illinois DECA State Competition my freshman year, and again my senior year. It was a fun experience where I got to spend time with friends and meet new people. Both times have influenced me to explore my interest in marketing and economics beyond high school." Hammed Adeoye Old stomping grounds: Simmons Middle SchoolPost-graduation plans: Studying Biochemistry or NeuroscienceClubs/activities: National Honor Society, Student Council, Science National Honor Society, Student-Athlete Society, Track & Field, VolleyballI was most proud of myself when… "I completed the semester with an A in Mr. Cozzen's Calculus class."Advice to my younger self: "Do not let your fear of failure restrict you from trying new things."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My mom; I have seen her take on adversities without backing down all with a smile on her face. She taught me that 'opportunities come to those who not only prepare themselves for it but also to those who will take the chance to seize it."Favorite high school memory: "The first annual Tom-A-Hawk Turkey Trot because it was one of the events I remember signing up with a best friend of mine. It was a memory filled with laughs and banters." Viridiana Perez-Andrade Old stomping grounds: Brady Elementary, Simmons Middle SchoolPost-graduation plans: Studying Secondary Education with a focus on Mathematics; Considering North Central College, Northern Illinois University, Aurora University, University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Loyola UniversityClubs/activities: Tennis Team, National Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Educators Rising, 3 O'Clock Jazz BandI was most proud of myself when…"I managed to balance two math courses my sophomore year of high school."Advice to my younger self: "I would tell myself to get involved in school activities as much as I could and to enjoy every moment of high school."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "Both of my parents have had the greatest impact on my academic success because I've seen the hardships they've gone through and sacrifices they've made to give me better opportunities."Favorite high school memory: "When I got to see the Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors of the EA Marching Band perform the 2021 show as Seniors watched from the bleachers. This moment brought back memories from my previous three years of being a part of the marching band and it was amazing to see the show as part of an audience." Natalie Gutierrez Old stomping grounds: O'Donnell Elementary, John C. Dunham STEM SchoolPost-graduation plans: Studying something in the Medical Field; Considering Ursinus College, Denison University, Knox College, Trinity University, Loyola UniversityClubs/activities: German Honor Society, National Honors Society, BadmintonI was most proud of myself when… "I managed to complete my senior year while working and having family responsibilities."Advice to my younger self: "Persevering through the doubt always brings success."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My parents have inspired me the most during my journey through school. They immigrated here at a young age and taught me the power that an education can wield. Getting to watch my dad's strong work ethic and the love he has for his family inspires me to keep pushing. Likewise, my mom has nurtured me and guided me in times where my goals felt impossible. I am thankful for their life lessons and endless support."Favorite high school memory: "Getting the opportunity to help out the special education students in their reading class. They inspired me to view education in an optimistic manner and to never be afraid to ask for help." Andrea Itzel Sosa-López Old stomping grounds: Rollins Elementary, Simmons Middle SchoolPost-graduation plans: Studying Elementary Education at University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)Clubs/activities: National Honors Society, Educators Rising, Spanish Honors SocietyI was most proud of myself when… "I was able to push myself past what I believed I couldn't do and continued to grow inside and outside of school."Advice to my younger self: "Be confident in your capabilities because they will take you far. Continue pushing yourself to do what you love doing most."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My parents and siblings have had the biggest impact on my life. For as long as I can remember they have pushed and encouraged me academically and supported me throughout my life and built an uplifting environment where I could succeed and follow my dreams."Favorite high school memory: "Joining the Educators Rising club because it allowed me to find individuals who shared the same passions as me. It allowed me to see how different and unique we all were, but we all had one thing in common–and that was our passion for teaching." Crystal Jurado Old stomping grounds: Allen Elementary, Cowherd Middle School Post-graduation plans: Studying NursingClubs/activities: Dance Team, National Honors Society, Math Honors SocietyI was most proud of myself when… "I was told I was an Illinois State Scholar and part of the Top 10."Advice to my younger self: "Don't sell yourself short."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "Mick and Jen because they've supported me from the start, never let me give up and always believed in me when I didn't think I could."Favorite high school memory: "The Homecoming football game of 2021. It was one of the best performances our team had and there was a big crowd and just full of energy." Daniela Velazquez Old stomping grounds: Gates Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet AcademyPost-graduation plans: Studying Music Education at North Central CollegeClubs/activities: Marching/Pep Band, Choir, Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honors Society, Jazz Band, GSA, Empowerment Club, TrackI was most proud of myself when… "I was chosen to be a part of the ILMEA District 9 Honors Choir."Advice to my younger self: "Chill and have fun. It'll be over before you know it and all you will be left with are the memories you made along the way."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My dad. He has always inspired me to do my best and keep on trying, even when things get hard. I'm so grateful for all he has done for my family."Favorite high school memory: "Performing for the high school's Annual Prism Concert." Johanna Gonzalez Old stomping grounds: Gates Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet AcademyPost-graduation plans: Studying Architecture; Considering University of illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Illinois Institute of Technology, North Central College, Aurora UniversityClubs/activities: Cross Country, National Honors Society, North Central Junior/Senior ScholarsI was most proud of myself when… "I was most proud of myself when I saw how proud my parent are of my accomplishments."Advice to my younger self: "Don't be so scared to get involved. These next couple years will fly by, make the most out of it but also remember to set priorities."What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? "My older sister has been my biggest example. She has always encouraged and supported me through everything."Favorite high school memory: "One of my favorite memories while at EAHS has to be the long runs in cross country, especially those we ran under the rain."