High School Valedictorians Join Freshman Class

December 7, 2015

The Class of 2015 is St. John’s largest in seven years. As always, the freshmen included talented students from the New York City region and beyond. They reflect the University’s continuing popularity among young men and women who seek a quality education that prepares them to make a positive difference in the world. Four high school valedictorians share their stories here.

Daisy Alvarado ’19C

There are many ways to make a difference, according to Daisy Alvarado '19C. She began serving others as a child in Adelanto, CA, where she and her family helped raise funds for their local church, collected food and clothes for those in need, and volunteered at the local library.

But it was at Adelanto High School that Daisy discovered another form of service. Volunteering at a local hospital, she witnessed the profound impact physicians had on those in need. The experience convinced her to pursue medical school.

To prepare, she enrolled at St. John’s. “I was really impressed by the quality of the sciences here,” said the 20-year-old biology major. In addition to small classes and professors “who are totally focused on helping students succeed,” she noted, the biology program provides “great experience in the lab and the field.”

An Ozanam Scholar, Daisy also was drawn by the University’s Catholic and Vincentian mission. “St. John’s really cares about helping people who are less fortunate, something that I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. “It’s inspiring.” The opportunity to live and learn in New York City also attracted her. “This is an exciting place to be.”

Joerenz Bolina ’19C

Growing up in Queens, NY, Joerenz Bolina '19C began visiting St. John’s University at an early age. His elementary school teachers arranged trips to see plays there. As a student at St. John’s Preparatory School, he often took part in service activities at the University.

“There was always something peaceful, something friendly about the campus and the people there,” he said. That atmosphere—and the chance to pursue his interest in physics—brought Joerenz to the University.

“I’ve been interested in math and science since I was a kid—it’s something my mom and dad always emphasized,” said 18-year-old Joerenz, whose parents are from the Philippines. His mother, a nurse, taught him about biology and chemistry. His father, an engineer, encouraged his interest in math.

Joerenz also excels beyond the classroom. A member of St. John's Chappell Players, he had two parts in a recent production of “A Man for All Seasons.” He also sings in the University’s Mixed Chorus. In addition, he has already begun to participate in service activities. “Catholic values were part of what I liked about my high school,” he said. “It’s something I appreciate at St. John’s, too.”

Gabriella Colangelo ’19CPS

Attending high school at The Mary Louis Academy in Jamaica, Queens, Gabriella Colangelo ’19CPS already was familiar with St. John’s University. “St. John’s is not just physically close to TMLA,” she observed. “Its philosophy resonated with that of my alma mater.”

The combination of proximity and focus appealed to Gabriella. Though the computer science major wanted to stay home for college, she still wanted to experience “the world outside my neighborhood.” St. John’s New York location allowed her to do just that. Even though it’s in the city, it offers a traditional “college feel”: “The community is very welcoming, and the grounds are beautiful and picturesque.”

A member of the National Honor Society and the Languages Other than English (LOTE) Honor Society, Gabriella played in the orchestra and engaged in service at her home parish of Notre Dame Church in New Hyde Park, NY. Though she currently is “focusing on academics” at St. John’s, she plans to eventually join Campus Ministry or a club devoted to social justice issues.

Colangelo knows her time at the University will go fast, and her eyes are already on the future. She is enrolled in the five-year B.S. in computer science/MBA program. “I’m still unsure about which career I’ll pursue,” she said. “But the guidance St. John’s offers will help me make the right choice.”

Leanne Palisoc ’19C

Though physics major Leanne Palisoc '19C could have attended college in her home state of Texas, the 2015 valedictorian of Loretto Academy High School in El Paso, TX, chose St. John’s because of the University’s proximity to Manhattan as well as its Catholic and Vincentian values.

“I visited St. John’s campus, and it was just perfect,” said Palisoc, recalling her campus visit as a high school senior. “I’m Catholic, and being part of a Catholic community is very important to me, so it was an easy choice.”

Throughout her high school years, Palisoc was involved with service work, having volunteered at the YWCA and other organizations. A member of the National Honor Society and Student Council, Palisoc also represented her community as a delegate at the EF Global Summit in China in 2014, where she brainstormed with other students on social justice issues.

“I love doing service work,” said Palisoc, a member of P.A.R.E. (Philippine Americans Reaching Everyone). She participated in International Coastal Cleanup Day during University Service Day and sings in the Voices of Victory Choir. Next semester, she plans to help with America Reads * America Serves. “Whether in the local community or on a larger scale, service is a huge part of my life.” 

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