Yorktown Valedictorian O'Callaghan Offers Underclassmen Advice

YORKTOWN, NY — This year's valedictorian for the Yorktown High School Class of 2018 is Ellen O'Callaghan. Patch asked O'Callaghan 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 miss the unique aspect of camaraderie. These four years experiencing school, sports and extracurriculars with people who I've grown up with has been unspeakably wonderful. To know your peers from the beginning, to witness the growth of them as well as yourself, is the best thing about high school.

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

In moving onto college I am most looking forward to beginning a new experience. I can't wait to be surrounded by equally ambitious people as I delve deeper into my passions and become a better person.

3. What was your favorite high school class?

My favorite high school class was AP Biology. Taught by Mrs. Servedio, the class allowed for freedom in learning. Through labs structured by ourselves, it provided an experience applicable to college.

4. What clubs or extracurriculars were you involved in?

I have been a part of varsity soccer, varsity basketball, varsity track and field, varsity lacrosse, sports editor of school newspaper, vice president of my class, National Honor Society, varsity athletes against substance abuse club, midnight runners club, big buddy club and Yorktown congress of teachers intern.

5. What advice would you give to underclassmen?

I would tell underclassman to really make the most of their high school experience. It has gone by in a blink of an eye, and I wish more than anything it could be longer.

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

Mrs. Stops: she is the most rare teacher I've ever been taught by. She made English class an appreciation of literature and an analysis of human lessons. As I expanded my knowledge of English, I learned so much about life.

7. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I hope to be in the middle of my medical residency. After going to medical school for four years, I will be in my residency on the path to eventually becoming a neurologist. I hope to more importantly be happy and healthy.

8. Tell us a fun fact about you.

A fun fact about myself is that I had an extra wisdom tooth. All five were sadly removed this year.

Photo caption: Ellen O'Callaghan. Photo credit: Submitted.