It has recently been announced who the class of 2022’s valedictorian and salutatorian are. Congratulations to Angelo Lucero for being chosen as valedictorian and Leah Kapps for being chosen as salutatorian. I was given the opportunity to interview both of them and learn more about their journey while attending Kearny High School.

Valedictorian Interview with Angelo Lucero 

How did you first feel when you were told that you were the valedictorian of the class of 2022?

I was left in shock when Mrs. Hart called me down to her office and told me that I am the valedictorian of my class. I did not expect it at all because I never hoped to be chosen to be the one and I solely focused on being the best student that I can be without trying to achieve any title.

Was achieving this title something that you worked for during your time at Kearny High School?

Coming from a different background and foreign school system, I did not know the existence of such a title, and I thought that the top student in their class did not get recognized at all. I always strived to have the best grades and excel in whatever I proposed myself, but I did not try to obtain recognition.

What classes and/or extracurriculars did you participate in during your four years?

I’ve participated in various activities during my high school year and each one of them turned me into what I am today and I’m glad I did every single one of them. I’ve participated in Cross Country and Outdoor Track for 2 seasons only, I swam for the swimming team for all 4 years, being the captain of it my senior year and I rowed for the Crew Team my freshman and senior year. Swim and Crew have especially helped me with my formation and have complimented my studying skills by teaching me persistence and discipline. Honor and AP classes have been crucial too because they challenged my abilities and made me think outside of my comfort zone.

Do you have any tips for maintaining a high GPA, extracurricular activities, and a social life all at once?

Be punctual and organize your life in such a manner that you can deal with different responsibilities all at once without disregarding the others. Attempt to do your homework and prepare for quizzes and tests beforehand, practice at your best during training, and find the rest of the time that you will find to spend with your loved ones and friends.

How are you preparing to deliver your speech for the class of 2022 graduation?

I’ve been developing my speech by thinking about what the Kearny high school experience means to me. Every aspect that has accompanied me throughout my journey at Kearny High has allowed me to excel in other fields of my life. Each student, no matter where they’re from or who they are, provides an immense contribution to the school and had shaped other people’s journeys in a crucial way.

What are your future plans after high school?

I plan to study computer engineering at NJIT, get a job at one of the FANNG companies as a software developer, work a few years around Europe, especially in Italy, then work in a car company as a software developer as well and retire in Italy.

Do you have any final words for any underclassmen who are striving to become the valedictorian of their class?

Try to not compare yourself to your classmates and friends. Everyone takes a different path and is not even close to being linear and consistent. Many struggles will attend you but it is up to you how you want to deal with them. You shall strive to be the best version of yourself, never be satisfied with your achievements but have time to appreciate what you have gone through and be grateful for the opportunity that you have to study, which not many people around the world have.

Salutatorian Interview with Leah Kapps

How did you first feel when you were told that you were the salutatorian of the class of 2022?

 I felt kind of surprised but also excited and proud of myself

Was achieving this title something that you worked for during your time at Kearny High School?

This was not something I worked for. I mostly worked hard for college. I wasn’t expecting to get this title.

What classes and/or extracurriculars did you participate in during your four years?

I took AP US History, AP French, AP Calc, AP Chemistry, and AP Bio. I took all honors courses for whatever I could. I did track for two seasons. I was president of the S.A.V.E. Club and I volunteered at the community garden. I also did band all four years.

Do you have any tips for maintaining a high GPA, extracurricular activities, and a social life all at once?

I’d say get things done as soon as possible so you don’t have to worry as much. Also maybe do extracurriculars with friends.

How are you preparing to deliver your speech for the class of 2022 graduation?

I’m going to try to make my speech meaningful but also with some funny and relatable parts.

What are your future plans after high school?

I plan on going to Rutger University, dorming, and majoring in Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources (basically I want to want to save the environment).

Do you have any final words for any underclassmen who are striving to become the salutatorian of their class?

I would say don’t strive to be the salutatorian. If you need or want good grades just do it because you want to. Although it’s a big honor, it’s not worth stressing yourself out for the title. But if you really want to be salutatorian for some reason, take AP classes and do good in them.