Jessica Baik Wins
Perfect Attendance Award
Jessica Baik is perfect. The Huntington High School senior was presented with the Perfect Attendance Award by Assistant Principal Brenden Cusack during last week's senior academic awards night. The teenager has not been absent from school since she was in the fourth grade.
Ms. Baik is headed to New York University in the fall to study psychology. One of the top members of Huntington's Class of 2013, she credits her success to having the support of "amazing friends and family and helpful teachers," as well as the ability to balance her interests with her studies.
The senior is an accomplished photographer and an officer in a pair of high school clubs. "Jess has challenged herself with a solid college preparatory curriculum," said Bernadette Walsh, Huntington's college counselor. "Her cumulative grade point average, earned in a demanding series of honors and AP level courses, represents diligence and hard work."
Ms. Baik is a role model and leader among Huntington's Asian-American student community and a popular and loyal friend, classmate and teammate to many. She graced the Blue Devil swimming and diving team as one of its best competitors. A member of several honor societies, the teenager has also participated in Student League for Animal Protection.
A talented flute player, Ms. Baik has performed in the wind ensemble with Huntington's senior band and the New York Laureate Orchestra. "Jess is a multidimensional young woman who brings enthusiasm and zest to every situation she encounters, musically, athletically and academically," Mrs. Walsh said.
Ms. Baik's native language is Korean, which is spoken in her home. The senior has thrived at Huntington High School, embracing all of its academic challenges and building an impressive academic and co-curricular resume.
"Jess is a refreshing breath of air in the unsettling world in which we live," Mrs. Walsh said. "She is a young lady with strong social responsibilities and a fervent sense of self. She is an exceptional young woman with an ample reserve of expertise in a variety of areas."