Every quarter, teachers, educators, and departmental heads decide on one student from subject area who exercised success, excellence, and involvement throughout the quarter. Each student displays what the department looks for as a “model student” and one who grows both in their attitude and in their studies.

This quarter, 15 students were honored as a group at a breakfast and ceremony on the 16th of January.

The honorees included Asha Amin, Noor Ansari, Taylor Beck, Emma Blackwell, Joseph Bletsas, Grace Bouton, Caroline Casey, Adnaan Chida, Auriel Hernandez,  Katherine Hohe, Madison Jurgovan, Eleanor Ostroff, Kenneth Phillips, Natalie Rozak, and Sydney Wirtz.

All of these students represent the true passion and capabilities that each department feels represent success and what it means to be a true Glenbard West student.

Noor Ansari, winner of the Social Studies department award, and Katherine (Katie) Hohe, recipient of the World Languages department award, were asked about their experiences in the 2nd quarter and what this award meant to them.

First, Noor Ansari, who was recognized in her outstanding achievements in Advanced Placement (AP) United States History and Social Studies, shared how the award has impacted her view on education.

“It feels cool to be honored,” Noor expressed. “[The award] definitely wasn’t something I expected because I feel like I didn’t do anything very special.”

As she was asked on the overall effort she put into her work, she explains that “it wasn’t easy or hard, because I got it for being a ‘special’ student in class who had fun in the class by drawing APUSH (AP United States History) related pictures on the board, but also did really well on tests as well as engaged in the class.” Ansari claims that her expressive nature and ability to “share[…] [her] notes with whoever wanted it” shows both her camaraderie and passion for the class. Although the award has not affected Noor’s thinking or emphasis on the necessity that is education, she notes that “[the award] has shown me, though, that teachers do notice their students and their personalities.”

To end, she shares that “If any student really wants the award, I think they should just be themselves, and show their teachers they’re eager to learn. I didn’t get the award for being smart, I got it for showing my curiosity and having fun in class. Go in for help, ask questions, be honest, make jokes in class. School can be a drag sometimes, so it’s important to have parts of it that you enjoy.” 

Katie Hohe, who received the honor for her excellence in Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish Language and Culture, states that “[Winning the award] I wouldn’t say [was] easy to get because I have been challenged more than I ever have than when I took honors. But my teacher, Señora Wuttke, is awesome and there is lots to learn in her class.”

Katie also noted that “it feels good to be honored and have all the hard work recognized.” She advises students to “[j]ust do your best and have a positive attitude [towards] education and your teachers.” 

Overall, the 2nd Quarter Departmental honorees show that this honor is well deserved for all. Whether it be in the Arts, Sciences, or any other field, Glenbard West’s finest are represented in this commemoration of academic accomplishment. Congratulations to all the honorees of the 2nd Quarter Departmental Awards!