Miranda Nykolyn is in the final stretch of a remarkable four year run. The Huntington High School senior has excelled academically, athletically and artistically and she’s just getting started. The teenager is eyeing one of the most highly regarded universities in the country to continue pursuit of her goals.
Ms. Nykolyn is an essential member of Huntington’s orchestra and she is pleased to have set aside time to participate in the district’s music program and develop her performance skills.
“I used to play the piano, but have played the cello since the fourth grade,” Ms. Nykolyn said. “The music department had a night where I was able to try multiple instruments and I fell in love with the cello. The sound was so pretty to the ear.”
When she was younger, the teenager participated in programs offered by the Long Island String Festival Association and Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association. “Now music is a relaxing part of my day because it is so enjoyable,” Ms. Nykolyn said.
The senior is finalizing her college plans. She intends to study chemical or aerospace engineering. “I either want to work in the pharmaceutical or the cosmetic industry,” Ms. Nykolyn said. “However, I am also interested in designing spacecraft.”
Huntington senior Miranda Nykolon.
But no matter how far she travels for college, Ms. Nykolyn will always retain fond memories of Huntington’s music program, including the faculty members who deliver instruction to students on every grade level.
“It has been great because of the dedicated music teachers in our school system,” Ms. Nykolyn said. “Each and every teacher has gone out of their way to personally help me succeed and they know how to make music fun while still getting me to improve.
Secretary of the high school Key Club since her sophomore year, Ms. Nykolyn is a member of Huntington’s Mathletes team. She’s also been deeply involved in the science research program and has won awards at metropolitan area competitions.
A very strong student academically, Ms. Nykolyn has developed many close relationships with Huntington’s teachers, coaches and advisors. Mrs. [Kathleen] Aufiero, Mrs. [Dame] Forbes and Mrs. [Lori] Kenny have all had a significant impact on me,” she said. “They have served as both teachers and mentors, always offering superb advice.”
After so many years in Huntington’s music program, Ms. Nykolyn is as close to an expert on it as just about any student can be. The teenager feels the program offers a great deal and she recommends that others consider participating in it.
“The music program creates relationships that last forever,” Ms. Nykolyn said. “Alumni even go back for the Hallelujah chorus at the winter concerts years after they graduate.”
Ms. Nykolyn has some advice for incoming high school freshmen: “Once you find your niche, surround yourself with others who share it,” she said.