Students receive College Board awards

Award recipient Camryn Burniston joyfully accepts his award.

BY AMYAH GONZALEZ

On November 28, for the first time ever, College Board hosted a recognition ceremony for notable OBHS students. Among the thousands of nationwide recipients, they presented awards to 85 Old Bridge High School students for their academic achievement and/or their milestone as a first-generation college student.

The first-generation college student award recognizes students on a path to graduate college as the first in their family to do so. “I feel privileged to have the opportunities and support systems that I do to further my education,” said junior Rhyan Vill.

One first generation student, Weronika Malinowski, spoke about her experiences on stage. “I felt nervous speaking in front of all the parents and students but as soon as I saw my parents in the audience, I immediately felt calm,” said Malinowski

Zhihao Xi plays the violin to welcome the guests at the reception.

First-generation college students received recognition for their milestone. “I am excited, but I hope that I have made my parents proud because they do a lot for me,” said first generation graduate, Weronika Malinowski. “I am so grateful for the life they have given me growing up.”

A lot of hard work went into qualifying for these awards. “Well, the award is given for outstanding scores on College Board assessments (Ex: PSAT/ AP Exams, etc) as well as high academic standing,” said junior Jenna Malik. “I dedicate a lot of hard work to school and studying for these assessments.”

Weronika Malinowski delivers her speech on being a first-generation college graduate.

When teachers saw students doing well academically, they encouraged students to apply. “I was in Mr. Goodman’s Physics class last year when I was asked to apply,” said award recipient, Scarlett O’Brien. “I didn’t think anything of it, and I applied not really know how big it would be.”

Regardless of which award students won, they agreed on one thing; it felt amazing. “I felt as though I had done a lot, as I was being acknowledged by a huge panel of a nationally overseeing group,” said Landon Moscariello. “With such a wide span of people, I was honored to be in the first group.”

Rianna Meerzon receives her award from Vice Principal Jonathan Bill.
Kayla Castillo and William Vaphides join together to say the pledge of allegiance.
Recognized student Selorm Amekudzi shakes Vice Principal Richard Maserik’s hand.
Alexis Gersher accepts her award greatfully.
Jenna Wilkinson obtains her award at the college board ceremony.