Valedictorian Roohi Maini and Salutatorian Guiseppe Ferraro
Island Trees High School proudly announces the valedictorian and salutatorian of the Class of 2010. Valedictorian Roohi Maini and Salutatorian Guiseppe Ferraro embody all of the distinct qualities necessary for success in their promising futures. Both of these accomplished scholars exercise their talents both in the classroom and in their communities.
Warm, intelligent and enthusiastic, Roohi approaches life’s challenges with a positive attitude. It is her ability to balance hard work and the active pursuit of her academic goals with that of her desire to be involved and make a difference in her school community, that sets her apart as a unique student.
Though highly motivated and goal-oriented, Roohi has the genuine desire to make a difference in the world, starting right at Island Trees High School. Roohi is an active member of the Student Council, National Honor Society, the Environmental Club, the Book Club, and the Key Club. In addition, she volunteers at New Island Hospital where she finds joy in visiting senior patients. A force to contend with on the badminton court, Roohi and her partner are currently undefeated. Roohi is respected and admired by her teachers for her intelligent curiosity and unique independence.
Perhaps social studies teacher Mr. Robert Amato says it best, “This is a unique young woman, singular in both ability and commitment.” Inspired by her parents and teachers, Roohi attributes her success to their constant support and motivation. When asked to provide some encouraging words to students wishing to achieve greater academic success, she shares this, “Don’t ever give up and don’t ever let anyone tell you that you are not good enough… because you are.”
Dedicated, motivated and self-assured, Guiseppe approaches all academic and personal challenges with maturity and poise. His extracurricular involvements reflect his diverse interests, as he is a member of the Key Club, Peer Leaders, and Athletes Helping Athletes. In addition to being extremely involved in school life, Guiseppe maintains a part-time job and an intense interest in music. He is a talented musician, playing the alto-sax in the school band, jazz band, All-County Band, and NYSSMA competitions. His determination to conquer challenges finds its way into competitive sports, as Guiseppe is a valued player on the varsity soccer team.
Guiseppe has made quite an impression on his teachers. His counselor, Ms. Sara Sherbach, speaks highly of him, saying, “This is one young man that I know is going places and will use every opportunity to his advantage, being grateful for each and every one of them just as he has throughout his four years of high school.”
Guiseppe attributes his success to both his parents and all of his teachers, who, according to him, “are the reason why students are able to do what we do.” In fact, Guiseppe has been raised to value his education deeply and take pride in everything he achieves.
Guiseppe has some advice for aspiring students. “Take advantage of every opportunity from the beginning,” he said. “Get involved as a freshman. Even though doing well is a lot of pressure, don’t look back and wish you did better in that freshman class.”
Both students are excited to continue their education in the fall. Roohi will attend either New York University or University of Pennsylvania to study psychology, while Guiseppe plans to pursue a degree in accounting and business at St. John’s University. The Island Trees High School faculty wishes them all the best in their future endeavors.
