Huntington Senior Lyndsey Williams Commits to Cornell
Lyndsey Williams has wanted to be a veterinarian since she was four years old. The Huntington High School Class of 2014 member will take a big step toward realizing her dream when she heads off to Cornell University next fall to study animal science.
“I am ecstatic to be going to Cornell, as it has the best veterinary medicine program in the world,” Ms. Williams said. “It is like a dream come true.” Last summer the teenager interned at North Shore Veterinary Hospital in Northport, where she was able to do everything from sitting in on routine check-ups to observing multiple animal surgeries.
“Not only has my love for animals driven my passion to become a veterinarian, but I find it more interesting because a person can just tell you what hurts,” Ms. Williams said. “You almost get to play detective to figure out what is ailing an animal.”
When it comes to her love for animals, Ms. Williams talks the talk and walks the walk. She’s been a vegetarian since the age of 12, which has been no easy feat in a family comprised of meat-eaters.
Exceptional scholar
Ms. Williams began her educational journey in private school before transferring to Washington Primary School for second grade. “Mrs. [Joan] Balsari was my first teacher there and she really made me feel welcome, even though I was really nervous to be making new friends,” the senior said.
She has come a long way since those elementary school years. This year, Ms. Williams is enrolled in AP Calculus, AP Literature, AP Physics, Honors Spanish, Economics and Band. She is participating in a credit bearing career internship with Honors Physics teacher Judy Pazienza.
“My favorite teachers are Ms. [Judy] Pazienza and Mrs. [JoAnn] Ferazi,” Ms. Williams said. “I’ve had Ms. Pazienza for three years and Mrs. Ferazi for two. They really care about their students and help in any way they can. I am so glad that I have gotten to know them over the years. I was very lucky to have them as my teachers.”
“Lyndsey is one of the most dedicated students I have ever had, which is why I asked her to be my intern this year,” Ms. Pazienza said. “And to add to her awesome grades, tireless fundraising for robotics and work ethic, she always has a smile on her face, always is pleasant to other students and always sees the bright side of everything. I love this kid and I will really miss her, but I am so proud of her for getting into Cornell!”
Ms. Williams studied Algebra 2 Trigonometry Accelerated and Pre-Calculus AB Honors with Mrs. Ferazi, “Lyndsey was a pleasure to work with and I am honored to have taught her,” the math teacher said. “She is an amazing young lady who is always respectful and personable. She has a good work ethic and strives to achieve her very best. I will miss her and wish her all the success life has to offer.”
Accomplished equestrian
One of the loves of Ms. Williams’ life is horseback riding. She’s been doing it “for as long as I can remember” and “it’s one of the things that convinced me to pursue veterinary medicine.” The Huntington senior hopes to pursue a doctor of veterinary medicine degree at Cornell following completion of her bachelor degree requirements.
Ms. Williams has competed in “countless” horseback riding shows and is currently a member of Stonyhill Equestrian Center’s Interscholastic Equestrian Association team. Located on 11 acres on Fort Salonga Road in Northport, Stonyhill has been the scene of hours upon hours of enjoyment for the teenager.
The senior has also set aside time for numerous volunteer activities. Two of Ms. Williams’ favorites involve the Huntington High School Key Club and the Relay For Life fundraiser extravaganza for the American Cancer Society. The Key Club’s holiday shopping tour with needy children was especially rewarding.
The highlight of Ms. Williams’ community service activities has been annually captaining a Relay For Life team since she was a freshman. The team has raised more than $3,000. The activity holds special meaning for the teenager since her grandfather passed away following a battle with colon cancer.
A member of the Huntington’s National Honor Society chapter as well as the high school’s science and English honor societies, Ms. Williams has an across-the-board record of scholastic excellence.
As a member of Huntington’s National History Day club, Ms. Williams mentored underclassmen as they developed their projects this year. As a sophomore, she partnered with Sara Totura on a project that placed second in the group exhibit category and advanced to the Long Island regional finals at Hofstra University. Last year the duo was honored for having the Outstanding Entry on Military History for their work titled The Manhattan Project.
Ms. Williams has enjoyed being a member of the Blue Devil marching band, the high school crew team and the robotics club. She has been working as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the YMCA.
Loves to travel
The senior has also developed a love of traveling. In addition to Ms. Williams’ stateside treks and jaunts to Puerto Rico and Canada she has journeyed to several European cities, including Venice, Florence and Milan with her cousin and fellow Huntington senior Monica Owen. She is looking forward to a trip with classmates to England and France this spring.
“Of all the places I have traveled to Venice, Italy is definitely my favorite,” Ms. Williams said. “I love the versatility of it. One minute you can be learning about the vast culture and history of the city and the next you can be tanning on the beach, taking in the view of the Adriatic Sea.” She “can’t wait to see” what England and France have to offer.
As she prepares to department Huntington High School, the senior has advice for next year’s ninth graders. “I would tell incoming high school freshmen to smile or say hello to one stranger each day at school,” Ms. Williams said. “I know it sounds weird, but you never know; you could have made their day or you could even make a new friend!”