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April 4, 2022

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Top 10 Students in Class of 2022 RevealedSe revelan los 10 mejores estudiantes de la clase de 2022

Top10Students

The Top 10 academic students of the Class of 2022 have been unveiled, kicking off the celebration of this year’s graduating class in earnest.

These students represent the ten highest grade point averages (GPA) in their class. Most are also heavily involved in activities, clubs, athletics, and the like within their school community, representing the next generation of leaders, educators, and innovators who continue to make East Aurora proud.

We want to congratulate our Top 10 students, their families, teachers, and all who have guided and supported their journeys while in District 131.

Get to know our Top 10 below and get excited for all the great the Class of 2022 is poised to do.

#1. Christian Madera (Valedictorian)

Parent/Guardian: Juan Madera, Eva Madera

Old Stomping Grounds: O’Donnell Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Computer Science or Computer Engineering; Considering Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, North Central College, Loyola University Chicago, University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Stanford University

Clubs/Activities: Football, Track & Field, Wrestling, National Honors Society, Science National Honors Society, Jazz Ensemble, Latin Jazz Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Student Board Member

I was most proud of myself when…I realized I achieved my goals while still allowing myself to enjoy high school, live life, and just be a teenager

Advice to my younger self: I would like to tell my younger self to embrace myself and life for all the shortcomings and imperfections that there will be. You gotta’ live life and not hold the weight of the world on your shoulders.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My own mother, who through her actions and sacrifices has always taught me and exemplified scholarship, hard work, and good character. I would be lost without everything she has done for me. Secondly, the most influential teacher I’ve had the pleasure of learning from, Ms. Bakas. She has been and continues to be the most intelligent, caring, and dedicated teacher who consistently motivates and deeply believes in all of her students. 3 years since I’ve had her as a teacher she continues to be a lasting role model for excellence.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: My favorite memory of high school is collectively just the Fall season of my senior year. Being drum major in the marching band, playing varsity football, doing clubs, going to homecoming, and hanging out with friends. It reminds me how grateful I am that I did high school to the fullest.

#2. Daisy Ruiz (Salutatorian)

Parent/Guardian: Patricia Garcia, Jose Ruiz

Old Stomping Grounds: Independence Elementary (VVCUSD 365), Bardwell Elementary, Waldo Middle School

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Communications; Considering Bucknell University, Syracuse University, University of Oregon, University of Denver

Clubs/Activities: Tennis, Bowling, Scholastic Bowl, Marching Band, EA Ambassadors, Science National Honors Society, National Honors Society

I was most proud of myself when…I made Wind Ensemble my junior year. Ever since I joined band in the fifth grade, it was my goal to make it to the top band at East and I did just that.

Advice to my younger self: I would go back and tell myself to join more things my freshman year. There are an endless amount of experiences you can have when you become involved, and I wish I would have known that a lot earlier in my high school career.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My sophomore year chemistry teacher, Mr. Taylor. He saw my potential and pushed me to be the best I could be, even when I was doubting myself. The enthusiasm and love he has for his students is both inspiring and admirable.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: My favorite memories were made during my time on the girls tennis team. The people I met and the experience I gained being on the team really made high school enjoyable.

#3. Lorena Alvarez

Parent/Guardian: Jaime Alvarez, Lucia Alvarez

Old Stomping Grounds: Allen Elementary, O’Donnell Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Economics; Considering study at University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign and Chicago), Case Western Reserve University, Northeastern University

Clubs/Activities: Student Board Member, DECA (President), National Honor Society (President), Marching Band (Drum Major), Concert Band, Science National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society

I was most proud of myself when…I was chosen to represent my peers and voice their experiences and achievements through my position as Student Board Member

Advice to my younger self: I would tell myself to enjoy the next four years of life and to never be scared to take a chance, whatever it may be, because nothing is certain

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My entire family has always been my support system, but my older brother has had the biggest impact on my aspirations in life. He always taught me not to settle for less and pushed me to apply myself in everything I do.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: Going to the Illinois DECA State Competition my freshman year, and again my senior year. It was a fun experience where I got to spend time with friends and meet new people. Both times have influenced me to explore my interest in marketing and economics beyond high school.

#4. Hammed Adeoye

Parent/Guardian: Oluseyi Adeoye, Lukman Adeoye

Old Stomping Grounds: Simmons Middle School

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Biochemistry or Neuroscience

Clubs/Activities: National Honor Society, Student Council, Science National Honor Society, Student Athlete Society, Track & Field, Volleyball

I was most proud of myself when…I completed the semester with an A in Mr. Cozzen’s Calculus class

Advice to my younger self: Do not let your fear of failure restrict you from trying new things.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My mom; I have seen her take on adversities without backing down all with a smile on her face. She taught me that ‘opportunities come to those who not only prepare themselves for it but also to those who will take the chance to seize it.’

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: The first annual Tom-A-Hawk Turkey Trot because it was one of the events I remember signing up with a best friend of mine. It was a memory filled with laughs and banters.

#5. Viridiana Perez-Andrade

Parent/Guardian: Maria Andrade, Salvador Perez

Old Stomping Grounds: Brady Elementary, Simmons Middle School

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Secondary Education with a focus on Mathematics; Considering North Central College, Northern Illinois University, Aurora University, University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Loyola University

Clubs/Activities: Tennis Team, National Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Educators Rising, 3 O’Clock Jazz Band

I was most proud of myself when…I managed to balance two math courses my sophomore year of high school.

Advice to my younger self: I would tell myself to get involved in school activities as much as I could and to enjoy every moment of high school.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? Both of my parents have had the greatest impact on my academic success because I’ve seen the hardships they’ve gone through and sacrifices they’ve made to give me better opportunities.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: When I got to see the Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors of the EA Marching Band perform the 2021 show as Seniors watched from the bleachers. This moment brought back memories from my previous three years of being a part of the marching band and it was amazing to see the show as part of an audience.

#6. Natalie Gutierrez

Parent/Guardian: Rosa Rojas, Juan Gutierrez

Old Stomping Grounds: O’Donnell Elementary, John C. Dunham STEM School

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying something in the Medical Field; Considering Ursinus College, Denison University, Knox College, Trinity University, Loyola University

Clubs/Activities: German Honor Society, National Honors Society, Badminton

I was most proud of myself when…I managed to complete my senior year while working and having family responsibilities.

Advice to my younger self: Persevering through the doubt always brings success.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My parents have inspired me the most during my journey through school. They immigrated here at a young age and taught me the power that an education can wield. Getting to watch my dad’s strong work ethic and the love he has for his family inspires me to keep pushing. Likewise, my mom has nurtured me and guided me in times where my goals felt impossible. I am thankful for their life lessons and endless support.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: Getting the opportunity to help out the special education students in their reading class. They inspired me to view education in an optimistic manner and to never be afraid to ask for help.

#6. Andrea Itzel Sosa-López

Parent/Guardian: Antonio Sosa, Abigail Sosa-López

Old Stomping Grounds: Rollins Elementary, Simmons Middle School

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Elementary Education at University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)

Clubs/Activities: National Honors Society, Educators Rising, Spanish Honors Society

I was most proud of myself when…I was able to push myself past what I believed I couldn’t do and continued to grow inside and outside of school.

Advice to my younger self: Be confident in your capabilities because they will take you far. Continue pushing yourself to do what you love doing most.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My parents and siblings have had the biggest impact on my life. For as long as I can remember they have pushed and encouraged me academically and supported me throughout my life and built an uplifting environment where I could succeed and follow my dreams.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: Joining the Educators Rising club because it allowed me to find individuals who shared the same passions as me. It allowed me to see how different and unique we all were, but we all had one thing in common–and that was our passion for teaching.

#8. Crystal Jurado

Parent/Guardian: Odilia Alcantar

Old Stomping Grounds: Allen Elementary, Cowherd Middle School

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Nursing

Clubs/Activities: Dance Team, National Honors Society, Math Honors Society

I was most proud of myself when…I was told I was an Illinois State Scholar and part of the Top 10

Advice to my younger self: Don’t sell yourself short.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? Mick and Jen because they’ve supported me from the start, never let me give up and always believed in me when I didn’t think I could.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: The Homecoming football game of 2021. It was one of the best performances our team had and there was a big crowd and just full of energy.

#9. Daniela Velazquez

Parent/Guardian: Jose Velazquez, Guadalupe Velazquez

Old Stomping Grounds: Gates Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Music Education at North Central College

Clubs/Activities: Marching/Pep Band, Choir, Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honors Society, Jazz Band, GSA, Empowerment Club, Track

I was most proud of myself when…I was chosen to be a part of the ILMEA District 9 Honors Choir

Advice to my younger self: Chill and have fun. It’ll be over before you know it and all you will be left with are the memories you made along the way.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My dad. He has always inspired me to do my best and keep on trying, even when things get hard. I’m so grateful for all he has done for my family.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: Performing for the high school’s Annual Prism Concert

#10. Johanna Gonzalez

Parent/Guardian: Maria I Gonzalez, Anselmo Gonzalez

Old Stomping Grounds: Gates Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy

Post-Graduation Plans: Studying Architecture; Considering University of illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Illinois Institute of Technology, North Central College, Aurora University

Clubs/Activities: Cross Country, National Honors Society, North Central Junior/Senior Scholars

I was most proud of myself when…I was most proud of myself when I saw how proud my parent are of my accomplishments

Advice to my younger self: Don’t be so scared to get involved. These next couple years will fly by, make the most out of it but also remember to set priorities.

What adult has had the greatest impact on your life? My older sister has been my biggest example. She has always encouraged and supported me through everything.

Once a Tomcat, Always a Tomcat Favorite Memory: One of my favorite memories while at EAHS has to be the long runs in cross country, especially those we ran under the rain.

Top10Students

Se han anunciado los 10 mejores estudiantes académicos de la clase de 2022, iniciando la celebración de los graduados de este año en seriedad.

Estos estudiantes representan los diez mejores promedios de calificaciones (GPA) de su clase. La mayoría están muy involucrados en actividades extracurriculares, deportes y cosas similares dentro de su comunidad escolar, representando la próxima generación de líderes, educadores e innovadores que continúan hacer que el Este de Aurora esté orgulloso.

Queremos felicitar a nuestros 10 mejores estudiantes, sus familias, maestros y a todos los que han guiado y apoyado sus trayectorias mientras estaban en el Distrito 131.

Conoce nuestros 10 mejores estudiantes a continuación y emocionase por todo lo que la Clase de 2022 está dispuesta a hacer.

#1. Christian Madera (Valedictorian: estudiante principal con los mejores logros académicos)

Padre/Tutor: Juan Madera, Eva Madera

Escuelas anteriores: O’Donnell Elementary, Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy

Planes después de la graduación: Estudiar Ciencia de la Computación o Ingeniería de la Computación; Considerando las universidades de Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, North Central College, Loyola University Chicago, University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign), Stanford University

Actividades extracurriculares: Fútbol americano, equipo de correr, la lucha, Sociedad Nacional de Honores, Sociedad Nacional de Honores de Ciencias, Conjunto de Jazz, Conjunto de Jazz Latino, Conjunto de Instrumentos de Viento, Banda de marcha, Miembro Estudiantil de la Junta de Educación

Me sentí más orgulloso de mí mismo cuando… me di cuenta de que había alcanzado mis objetivos y al mismo tiempo me permitía disfrutar de la preparatoria, vivir la vida y ser simplemente un adolescente

Consejo para mí cuando era más joven: Me gustaría decirle a mí cuando era más joven que se abrace a sí mismo y a la vida por todos los defectos e imperfecciones que habrá. Tienes que vivir tu vida y no sostener el peso del mundo sobre tus hombros.

¿Cuál adulto ha tenido el mayor impacto en tu vida? Mi propia madre, a través de sus acciones y sacrificios siempre me ha enseñado y ha sido un ejemplo de educación, trabajo duro y buen carácter. Estaría perdido sin todo lo que ha hecho por mí. En segundo lugar, la maestra más influyente de la que he tenido el placer de aprender, la Sra. Bakas. Ha sido y sigue siendo la maestra más inteligente, cariñosa y dedicada que motiva constantemente y cree profundamente en todos sus estudiantes. Hace 3 años que la tengo como maestra y sigue siendo un modelo perdurable de excelencia.

El recuerdo favorito de ser un Tomcat una vez es ser un Tomcat para siempre:
Mi recuerdo favorito de la preparatoria es, en conjunto, la temporada de otoño de mi último año. Ser tambor mayor en la banda en marcha, jugar en el equipo varsity de fútbol americano, hacer actividades extracurriculares, ir a homecoming y salir con los amigos. Me recuerda de lo agradecido que estoy de haber hecho cosas en la preparatoria a lo máximo.

#2. Daisy Ruiz (Salutatorian: estudiante que ocupa el segunda lugar en la clasificación de una clase de graduación)

Padre/Tutor: Patricia Garcia, Jose Ruiz

Escuelas anteriores: Independence Elementary (VVCUSD 365), Bardwell Elementary, Waldo Middle School

Planes después de la graduación: Estudiar Comunicación; Considerando las universidades de Bucknell University, Syracuse University, University of Oregon, University of Denver

Actividades extracurriculares: Tenis, Boliche, Tazón Escolástico (Scholastic Bowl), Banda en marcha, Embajadores del Este de Aurora, Sociedad Nacional de Honores de Ciencia, Sociedad Nacional de Honores

Me sentí más orgullosa de mí misma cuando… entré en el Conjunto de Instrumentos de Viento en mi tercer año. Desde que me uní a la banda en el quinto grado, mi meta era llegar a la banda principal del Este de Aurora y lo hice.

Consejo para mí cuando era más joven: Regresaría atrás y me diría que me uniera a más cosas en mi primer año. No hay fin de experiencias que puedes tener cuando te involucras y ojalá lo hubiera sabido mucho antes en mi carrera de la preparatoria.

¿Cuál adulto ha tenido un gran impacto en tu vida? Mi maestro de química de segundo año, el Sr. Taylor. Vio mi potencial y me empujó a ser lo mejor que podía ser, incluso cuando dudaba de mí misma. El entusiasmo y el amor que siente por sus estudiantes es tan inspirador además de admirable.

El recuerdo favorito de ser un Tomcat una vez es ser un Tomcat para siempre:
Mis recuerdos favoritos fueron creados durante mi tiempo en el equipo de tenis femenino. La gente que conocí y la experiencia que obtuve estando en el equipo hicieron que la preparatoria fuera realmente agradable.