I had a chance to interview the valedictorian, Simir Gill, and the salutatorian, Robert Kwark.

With Simir Gill:

1. How do you feel having achieved the title of valedictorian? What college are you going to?

I’m honored and humbled to receive this title. I will be going to Duke University in the fall. I’m interested in majoring in neuroscience, psychology, or philosophy, but I am keeping my options open.

1. What would you say you did to get to this point and who was your main support throughout high school?

My parents and sister were really supportive. They encouraged me when I had trouble, and cheered me on when I was successful. All my teachers and friends at PHHS were extremely kind and helpful too. I couldn’t have done it without them.

1. Are you part of any school sports teams or clubs?

I think school clubs and sports are nice break from school, a great way to meet people, and a fun way to do what you love. I’m president of Teens Against Cancer Club, Co-Captain of the debate team, and board member of the Environmental Club.  I’m also a Peer leader.

1. How did you manage to balance school with extracurricular activities?

I don’t play sports, so I’m usually always home before 5pm. This gives me plenty of time to finish my schoolwork, relax, go to the gym, and catch up on sleep. I also do my best to stay organized. I find it’s easier to remember jobs and meetings when you have a day planner.

1. What’s the greatest life lesson that going to PHHS has taught you?

This is a tough question; I’ve learned many important life lessons from all my teachers and administrators at PHHS.  One crucial lesson I’ve learned is that you should never be ashamed of asking for help. Back in freshman year, I’d sometimes be embarrassed to ask stupid questions, but I’ve since realized that there’s no shame not knowing or understanding something the first time. Learning something faster doesn’t necessarily mean better. Also, teachers at PHHS are more than happy to help.

1. What is your advice to underclassmen that just want to survive high school and end with a good GPA?

I think it’s important to let go and try your best. From my experience, when you worry or think too much, you psych yourself out on tests and quizzes. It’s better to work hard and just let the chips fall where they may. Also, time management is crucial; I can’t survive on less than 6 hours of sleep.

With Robert Kwark:

1. How do you feel having achieved the title of salutatorian? What college are you going to?

I’m completely shocked. Who knew I would be the salutatorian? I had no idea I would have this honor! I am going to Amherst College in Massachusetts next fall.

1. What would you say you did to get to this point and who was your main support throughout high school?

Hard work, of course… a few naps here and there didn’t hurt, either. My main support was definitely my parents.

1. Are you part of any school sports teams or clubs?

Yes. I was co-captain of the indoor track team and participated in Outdoor track for four years. Track was an awesome experience. I played football and basketball freshman year, too. I was part of the debate team, marching band, and President of the Science Club. They were all pretty cool clubs.

1. How did you manage to balance school with extracurricular activities?

It really takes dedication and motivation. Usually I just stayed up late. I got home from some indoor track meets at 11 pm or even at midnight. Those were the days I stayed up until 3 or 4 am doing work.

1. What’s the greatest life lesson that going to PHHS has taught you?

Don’t worry about the small things. Just focus on the big picture. Also, planning ahead pays off. Most of all, hard work will get you results.

1. What is your advice to underclassmen that just want to survive high school and end with a good GPA?

Study hard! Do your work! That’s about it. It IS possible to have fun and get good grades, but you have to be responsible about it.