Valedictorian: The Journey Is What Matters Most

When Farrah Liu was a third grade student at Montville Township’s , her teacher, Tammy Minsky, predicted Liu would be the valedictorian of her high school graduating class.

Minsky’s words inspired Liu. This Thursday, Liu will make her second valedictorian speech to the (MTHS) Class of 2012. Liu’s first speech was presented four years ago at her eighth grade graduation, where she was also the valedictorian.

“I was really happy,” the 18-year-old Pine Brook resident said about learning that her third grade dream had been achieved. “In the end, ranking is not that big of a deal. But, I am really honored that I can give a speech and say something to my class.”

Liu’s favorite subjects are English and biology, in particular molecular biology. This fall, she will begin a seven-year medical training program at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

“They tell me it’s the most efficient way to become a doctor,” she explained. “I won’t have to apply to [medical] school and go through that whole process again later.”

Liu is looking forward to her medical training and hopes to learn that her hands are steady enough to become a surgeon. However, she also acknowledged that most medical students change their minds several times before deciding on a specialty.

In addition to academics, Liu runs cross country and plays the violin. She has participated in the all-state orchestra every year.

“I really like the environment at Montville,” Liu said. “I feel like the teachers here really do care about you. It’s not just their job. They will give you advice on anything from life, to your future, to your job, anything. They really treat you like a part of the family.”

Liu said she sees herself as a goal-oriented individual, but she has learned that everyone is born with a different nature and each personality has its benefits. "Trust" is the message she hopes her classmates will carry with them through life, as working off the strengths of others and trusting each other is the most valuable lesson she has learned during her four years at Montville Township High School.

“Yeah, goals are important,” she said. “But, you have to enjoy the journey.”

It is not only Liu’s passion for science that has contributed to her desire to become a doctor, but also her passion for helping others. While she is not certain what type of big project she hopes to initiate in life, Liu plans to make time to create a foundation of some sort.

“You keep racking these things up,” explained Liu about awards and honors. “But, in the end, that gets really tiring. I know it sounds cliché, but I want to give back. Helping others is more rewarding than getting a '100' on a test.”

The MTHS Class of 2012 will graduate Thursday at 6 p.m.

Montville Patch will be profiling salutatorian Neville Dusaj on Tuesday.