2008-2009 Fox Valley Academic Team

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Abigail ChaoIllinois Mathematics and Science AcademyHometown: NapervilleParents: Jim and Hong ChaoSponsor: Suzanne Speulda, counselorClass rank: N/AGPA: N/ATest scores: ACT: 35; SAT: 2210College: University of PennsylvaniaPlanned major: Business or economicsAwards, honors: National Merit Finalist, Illinois State Scholar, co-captain of the Debate Team, Illinois state finals qualifier for tennisPersonal statement: "Commitment and enthusiasm have a way of transforming people. If there is one thing I have learned, it is to be a source of empowerment. One person can only do so much, but through small actions, we enable others to have a vision and be bold ... wherever I go, I will live my life with passion, enthusiasm, and drive. The world is full of problems, but I know that I only need to commit to one to have a lasting impact on many. My goal is only to inspire, and be inspired."Sponsor's endorsement: "If leadership skills are strengthened when adversity occurs and challenges are overcome, Abby's leadership skills are polished and top-notched. Her skills are clearly recognized by her peers, at the least, by the number of activities in which Abby holds leadership roles, not to mention her many honors and awards. Abby told me, 'I deliver on my promises and do what I say I'm going to do.' This is exactly what we want from our leaders, and Abby delivers."

Tommasina DomelSt. Edward Central Catholic High SchoolHometown: ElginParents: Gus and Gina DomelSponsor: Kerry O'BrienClass rank: 1 out of 104GPA: 4.67 on a weighted 4.0 scaleTest scores: ACT: 33College: Notre DamePlanned major: English literatureAwards, honors: Illinois State Scholar, Academic All-Conference for basketball, National Honor SocietyPersonal statement: "All the areas I have excelled in thus far also exhibit a dedication to academic excellence and a tenacious desire to become all I am capable of being; so now, as the time to depart for college draws nearer, I feel I am ready to tackle the more difficult obstacles ahead to finally reach these goals, just as I have through my previous endeavors. "Sponsor's endorsement: "On a daily basis she proves herself to be a very intelligent, curious and energetic student who is ahead of the curve in so many ways. Unlike some high school students who need to be challenged to get out of their comfort zone and do more, her chosen journey here at our school has been one of seeking out her own level in higher academic classes and working hard to gain even more understanding and knowledge. In a very real sense, she competes with herself to reach the heights she does. She is not out to defeat others but to gain satisfaction by giving her all to do well."Graduation photos - St. Edward Central Catholic High School

Yifei HuangIllinois Mathematics and Science AcademyHometown: NapervilleParents: Rong Huang and Yun HeSponsor: Julia Husen, college and academic counselorClass rank: ACT: 35GPA: N/ATest scores: N/ACollege: California Institute of TechnologyPlanned major: EngineeringAwards, honors: National Merit commended scholar, AP Scholar, Illinois State Scholar, business manager of student newspaperPersonal statement: "I want to become an engineer to make a difference in anyway I can, whether it is finding an alternative energy source or designing energy-efficient methods of accomplishing tasks. And, even as a high school senior, my accomplishments are already gradually leading me toward that goal. ... As a high school senior, I have explored and excelled at different aspects of engineering: learning math and science, designing and building, problem-solving, researching, joining a scientific community, and participating in outreach programs. Through my accomplishments, I have already started on my path to make a lasting contribution to society. "Sponsor's endorsement: "Yifei Huang is a model senior high school student in every aspect of her life. She is self-motivated to learn, thinks logically and analytically, enthusiastic about new opportunities and experiences, conscious and proud of her Chinese heritage, eager to work with others and, finally, very easily amused! Yifei is a dynamite college applicant who has my most enthusiastic support."

Matt JacobsMarmion AcademyHometown: GenevaParents: Daniel and JoEllen JacobsSponsor: Dan Thorpe, director of college guidanceClass rank: 5 out of 131GPA: 4.684Test scores: ACT: 32; SAT: 2060College: University of Notre DamePlanned major: Pre-medicineAwards, honors: Superior honor roll for seven semesters, National Merit Commended Scholar, two-time Academic All-ConferencePersonal statement: "I have been a member of the football team for four years. Entering the program at 92 pounds and leaving it at 136 pounds, practices and games weren't exactly easy. Out of some ten receivers that began football as freshmen, only four remained as seniors. Although some quit early on, I was dedicated to the team and earned two Academic All Conference Awards. I can put this perseverance into practice against the legendary trials of medical school."Sponsor's endorsement: "In working with him, one thing has always been very clear to me and the people who connect with him: His work ethic and class are deeply embedded in all of his actions. He is very much a high school student, participating in sports, playing in the band, going to school events, and hanging out with his peers. But no one questions his moral judgment. He is a very strong role model and leader; his charisma provides him with that confidence to be a 'normal guy' and yet not be swayed to follow the crowd. "Graduation photos - Marmion Academy

Matthew R. JohnsonSt. Edward Central Catholic High SchoolHometown: West DundeeParents: Mark and Donna JohnsonSponsor: Kerry O'Brien, adviserClass rank: 1 out of 104GPA: 4.67 on a weighted 4.0 scaleTest scores: ACT: 34