High School Honoree – Gabriel Padilla (11th Grade)
It is absolutely a pleasure to know Gabriel for the last two years. I have found him very talented, hard-working and truly grounded. I have seen how hard work has improved his performance in class from Chemistry to Advanced Placement Chemistry. He enjoys what he learns and accepts all challenges that come his way. I have seen him seek constructive feedback and never misses an opportunity to improve himself. He is caring, empathetic, and never hesitates or makes any excuse when it comes to helping a teacher or a friend.
Getting to know Gabriel:
- What class/subject is most challenging but also fun?
“I would say Physics. Physics is very applicable to the real world. The problem-solving aspect of Physics is challenging but I like that aspect of it.”
- What do adults not understand about being a student in current times?
“I think some adults don’t understand the pressures put on students nowadays. It seems there are rising expectations from universities every year. What is definitely needed are problem solving skills and ‘outside-of-the-box’ thinking as opposed to memorization. We can look up answers to anything but what students need is analytical thinking. A different approach from years ago.”
- What do you miss most about Kindergarten?
“I don’t remember much about Kindergarten. I’ve heard that I used to take naps in Kindergarten, that would be nice to be able to do now. I do miss the arts-and-crafts. I made a turkey once with my hand, that was cool.”
"Gabriel is an all-around good student that I enjoy having in my challenging class," commented Mrs. Mahua Chakraborty, Gabriel’s Chemistry teacher. "He displays kindness, empathy and is a positive influence for his peers."