Melissa Castiglione Announced as 2014 Lindenhurst High Valedictorian

Ranking first in a class of approximately 550 students is quite an accomplishment! With an impressive grade point average of 103.45, it is no wonder that Melissa Castiglione, who will lead this year’s graduation procession as valedictorian of Lindenhurst High School, was recently recognized during the annual senior award ceremony. 

Melissa was the recipient of several awards and scholarships including the President’s Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence, Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award and the Lindenhurst Council of PTA Dr. Anthony J. Pecorale Scholarship.

An AP Scholar with Distinction, Melissa challenged herself academically with several Advanced Placement courses, such as AP World History, English language, psychology, calculus, biology, chemistry and physics among others. With a passion for science, Melissa plans to attend the University of Chicago in September majoring in biology with a minor in psychology. She is interested in studying epigenetics, which she describes as the study of “everything outside of DNA that effects heredity.”

In addition to immersing herself in her academics, Melissa has involved herself in countless activities and clubs. In addition to being a member of the Key Club, Science Club, yearbook club and the Girl Scouts of America, Melissa has demonstrated her talents as a musician in the marching band, jazz band and pit orchestra as a saxophonist.  A member of the Tri-M Musical Honor Society for all four years, Melissa describes her involvement in the music program as “a great way to take a step back from my academic studies and have fun while still being productive.”

When asked about what she attributes her success to, Melissa explained that she is, “driven. I like to be the best at what I do. It is hard work, but it pays off in the end.” Recognizing that her drive is not the only factor, Melissa added that her parents played a large role in her success. “They always emphasized the importance of school and kept me on the right track. They encouraged me to get involved in activities that I otherwise may have overlooked.  I am so grateful to them for that.”

Looking back at her time at Lindenhurst High School, Melissa notes that she will miss her friends and teachers. She said: “The teachers, administration and friends I met along the way have been wonderful. They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and it helped me to move forward.”

The district congratulates Melissa on her outstanding achievements and wishes her the best for a successful and wonderful career at the University of Chicago.

Info and photo courtesy of the Lindenhurst School District