Abigail Van Wert of West Scranton High School
Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
A: I am first in my class. I am proud of this because I have always worked incredibly hard on my education and hold a deep pride in my high rank.
Q: Whom do you most admire and why?
A: I admire my mom the most because she has always been there when I needed her. She tells me all the time how much she loves me, and how proud she is of me. She’s the strongest person that I know, and I couldn’t ask for a better mother.
Q: What were your most rewarding school or community activities? Why?
A: My most rewarding school and community activity is theater. Theater is something that has helped me become the person that I am. I’ve become a strong, confident woman, and I think all of my directors I’ve had would be glad to agree with that. I’ve worked so hard both on stage and behind the scenes.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: I read, play video games, and do theater.
Q: What are your plans after high school graduation? Why did you choose this path?
A: I will attend Susquehanna University and major in finance and data analytics. I chose this path because I have always had a knack for math, and I believe it will be my way of helping the world and its people.
Q: What is your advice to younger students?
A: Never be afraid of being the weird kid; your differences make you memorable.
Q: Finish this sentence: The most interesting thing about me is …
A: My ability to persist under constant pressure.
A little about Abigail Van Wert
Abigail Van Wert of West Scranton High School is valedictorian of her class and a celebrated performer. Her school says she has a strong work ethic and a drive to make a positive impact.
She is the daughter of Amy and John Van Wert.
Abigail was selected for the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science three times. She has also been immersed in law and forensic science at George Mason University through the National Youth Leadership Forum. Her leadership roles include the presidency of the drama club and the Gay/Straight Alliance. She is a founding member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team, and a member of the National Honor Society and the Breast Cancer Awareness Club.
At left, in red, Abigail Van Wert performs. (COURTESY OF ABIGAIL VAN WERT)