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Wallingford Valedictorian Earns EMT Certification, FAA Drone License
The student balanced academics, service and leadership on her way to becoming valedictorian.
Wallingford, Connecticut — Connecticut is home to students who are showing up, standing out and making a real impact in their schools and communities. To celebrate them, Patch and T-Mobile have partnered to spotlight local students excelling in academics, athletics, the arts and beyond.
This submission comes from Sandra Zdanowicz, who nominated Marissa.
If you know a student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured as a Star Student on Patch.
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What is the star student’s name?
Marissa
Find out what's happening in Wallingfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
What grade is the student in?
12
How do you know the star student?
My niece
Tell us about your star student's accomplishments and why they deserve to be recognized on Patch!
To highlight Marissa’s accomplishments, she has achieved High Honors all four years at Vinal Technical High School. In her Criminal Justice program, she was awarded both the Chief’s Award and the Merit Award. She was a member of FEMA 2024–2025 and a founding member of the No Place for Hate program in 2022. She earned her National Registry EMT certification in May 2025. Most recently, she was the event coordinator for an emergency simulation project. She also acquired a drone pilot license from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and was awarded Valedictorian of her school.
Marissa is an exceptionally driven student. She consistently takes on many challenges while always exceeding expectations. She is an inspiration to her peers and all those who know her. This fall, she will be attending CCSU, majoring in Human Biology on the pre-med track with a minor in Criminal Justice. Marissa aspires to become a doctor in the future.
What three words best describe your star student?
Driven, Compassionate & Diligent.
Keep up the great work, Marissa! If you know a star student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.
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