We asked two top students interesting questions about themselves and they provided answers that shine a light on their plans for the future and unique personalities.

We hope you enjoy their answers as much as we did.

>> See the entire Class of 2024 list and commencement info

Valedictorian

Name: Vivian L. Raposo

Editor’s note: Raposo did not fill out our Q&A

Salutatorian

Name: Elena Pacheco

Parents: Kendall Santola, Daniel Pacheco

City/town: Camillus

Your plans in the next few years: I will be attending Syracuse University, majoring in environment, sustainability and policy.

What are your career plans? I hope to become an environmental policy analyst, consultant, or pursue environmental law.

Do you have any advice for underclassmen? Work hard, but remember that your worth isn’t defined by your achievements.

What was the highlight of your senior year? It has been deeply rewarding to give back to my school community by taking on leadership roles in my extracurriculars and musical activities.

Who has inspired you the most and why? My sibling, Lauren, has always inspired me to push myself, approach the world from a lens of curiosity, and care deeply for those around me.

What do you do to unwind or relax? Spend time with friends, bake, or play an instrument.

What word or phrase best describes your personality? Passionate

What’s the most important or sentimental thing you are taking from home when you leave for college? I’m taking a box of cards, notes, pictures, and keepsakes that I’ve collected throughout my life. Looking through this box reminds me of the memories and loved ones who have shaped my identity.

What do you envision your life being like when you are the same age your parents are now? When I am older, I would like to involve myself in community efforts, such as local governmental positions and volunteer work. I also hope to travel and explore new places.

What’s the one thing you learned by the end of your high school career that you wish you knew at the start? I wish I learned how to balance my academic and social lives earlier into my high school career – maintaining both is important for long-term sustainability and success.

If nothing else, what is the one thing you hope to accomplish in your lifetime? I hope to create a strong sense of community, connection, and love with the people in my life.

More to come

To celebrate the Class of 2024, we will be publishing lists of candidates for graduation and Q&As with each school’s valedictorian and salutatorian, or alternates from more than 60 schools across Central New York. All coverage, and more, can be found on our high school life page.

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