Irvington Valedictorian Sklar Looking Forward To Brown University

IRVINGTON, NY — This year's valedictorian for the Irvington High School Class of 2018 is Rachel Sklar. Patch asked Sklar to answer a few questions about her high school experience and what she looks forward to in the future.

1. What will you miss most about high school?

I will definitely miss the close-knit community the most. I am so thankful that I grew up in a small town like Irvington, where the people are so welcoming and everyone knows each other. It is so comforting to walk through the halls of a school where you recognize basically everyone and can wave at friends every few feet. I will miss this comfort level, both with respect to the students and the staff.

2. What are you looking forward to in moving on to college?

I am looking forward to having the opportunity to pursue my interests and explore all the programs that Brown University has to offer, from speakers to research projects and clubs. I am also really excited to be in the company of such passionate and motivated people.

3. What was your favorite high school class?

I thoroughly enjoyed many of my classes, including AP U.S. History, AP World History, AP French and Honors Chemistry. My favorite high school classes, though, have been my Latin classes, taught by Miss Cella and Mr. Silverman. I looked forward to them every day. I love studying Latin and learning about Roman culture and mythology. I especially enjoyed the Vergil and Caesar passages that we would translate this year in AP Latin. We also laughed a lot. There was never a dull moment.

4. What clubs or extracurriculars were you involved in?

I have been involved in the Model UN Club and was a head delegate this year. I was also involved in Latin Club, and was elected the secretary/treasurer. I expressed my musical side as a member of the Band and Wind Ensemble. I was also the vice president of National Honor Society, served on the planning committee of our Character Building Facilitators program, and played on the tennis and bowling teams. Outside of school, I was involved in my synagogue’s USY chapter and conducted a research project at a hospital in the city.

5. What advice would you give to underclassmen?

I would tell underclassmen to expand their horizons and try new things, because some of those “I might as well try…” decisions can lead to some of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences. I would also tell them to ask for help when necessary, whether that be from friends, upperclassmen, teachers or administrators. Most people are so happy to assist and share their experiences.

6. Any teachers/staff who stood out throughout your journey?

I have had so many amazing teachers during my time in Irvington that I cannot name them all, but Miss Cella, one of my Latin teachers, stands out. Her passion for Latin and dedication to her students is so inspiring. She has been a mentor and huge support for me over the past four years, and I truly cannot thank her enough for helping me to become the person that I am today. I would also like to give a shout-out to my guidance counselor, Ms. Rodriguez, who also provided great advice and support.

7. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I have a lot of interests right now, from Classics to Biology to Public Health, so I am not sure where will be in 10 years. I would like to see myself working with children, maybe by becoming a pediatrician.

8. Tell us a fun fact about you.

I have grown up as a huge Harry Potter fan, and as a November baby, four of the eight movies came out within a few days of my birthday. I always loved that as a kid.

Photo caption: From left, Salutatorian Kristin Lee and Valedictorian Rachel Sklar. Photo credit: Irvington Union Free School District.