SHS 2017 Salutatorian Taylor Flanagan shares his insights about the honor

SHS 2017 Salutatorian Taylor Flanagan shares his insights about the honor

Lauren Bruckstein

Describe your feelings about earning this impressive award.

I am very honored and happy to have received such an award, as I know there are countless other people who are equally as worthy of earning the title.

Which teacher/educator has been most influential in your academic success?

A lot of teachers have helped me through the years, notably Mr. Clemson, Madame Verwey, Mr. and Mrs. Batt, Mr. Doney, Mrs. Sickler, Mr. Kurnas, and so many more. But the most influential have definitely been Mr. and Mrs. Hakim. The Hakims have not only made me a stronger person academically, but they have also taught me a lot to make me a better person all around.

Outside of education, who has been your greatest influence?

My parents have always supported me and encouraged me to set big goals.

What are your plans after high school?

I will be attending the Honors College at Loyola Marymount University out in Los Angeles to study mathematics.

What other award or goal have you received in high school that you are most proud of? Ai??Why?

Iai??i??m very proud to say that Iai??i??ve been Class President for four years. Hopefully everybody had a lot of fun at prom this year!

What has been most rewarding about your high school experience?

I have loved getting to know such a unique group of individuals in my grade and beyond. I will miss everyone dearly and hope to continue our friendships throughout the rest of my life.

What advice can you give SHS underclassmen?

Do what you do because you want to do it, not because you want to get into college or earn money. Itai??i??s not worth putting effort into things you hate. If you love music, go for it. If youai??i??re super into computers, learn to code. If you love history (and I donai??i??t know why anyone would), talk to Mr. Lanfrank.

Is there anything additional youai??i??d like to add?

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