Discus Award Winner
Winners Gallery
PHOTOS
Edwin Padilla
12th Grade, NY
ATTRIBUTES
Arts
As I attended Manhattan Village Academy, I was required to attend a music class for my freshman year. While there I was designated the Alto Saxophone as my instrument of study. From the moment the mouthpiece touched my mouth, I knew that life would not be the same. My music teacher knew little of the Alto Saxophone and so I basically taught myself how to play the instrument. When a new teacher arrived in my school, he introduced me to Charlie Parker, and I spent six months learning one of his songs. From there I became first chair Alto Saxophonists, performing monthly for our school, and for hospitals. Along with this I also became the Band Manager and consultant to the Maestro. My journey in music has shown me that dedication overcomes any obstacle.
Government
As a Freshmen I was recommended by my teachers to join the Student Council as the 9th grade senator, and I did. The next year, I ran as student council senator as well, but saw the faults in our Student Council president, which coonvinced me to run for president for the upcoming year. I was elected president for my third year as president, and I drastically reorganized student council. I implemented legislation for interviewing candidates, procedures for replacing senators, and the vice president along with the president. I also organized two parties, donated to two charities through our No Uniform Today funds. Along with this, I also represented the Student body in Student Leadership Meetings dealing with the school's budget and where that money should go.
Academics
As a student of Manhattan Village Academy I have been in the top of my class for all four years of my high school career. through 9th and 10th grade, I would repeatedly receive Student of the Month Awards, and Academic Excellence awards. In 11th grade I received an award by the National Chemistry Society and even received an award for reading the most difficult books. In twelfth grade I received the honor of getting the Posse Full-Tuition Leadership Scholarship to Dickinson College, for my leadership abilities, academics and my role in my school and community. Along with this I am the prospective Valedictorian for my graduation, and it is a position that I definitely appreciate.
