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Bulldog SpotlightCongratulations to Symran Lall and Piero Urtega, PCTI’s December Athletes of the Month! Symran Lall is a three-year varsity starter who: As a junior, firmly emerged as a leader for the highly competitive Lady Bulldogs Swim team. Symran - affectionately known as “Symi” - is the first swimmer in PCTI history to qualify for the “A” finals in the NJSIAA State Meet of Champions in an individual event, effectively cementing her as one of the top swimmers in the entire state of New Jersey. Last season, she broke the school and the Passaic County record for the 100 backstroke, as well as 3 additional school records in the 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle relay, and medley relay. In her three years swimming for PCTI, Symi has earned All-County and All-League honors each and every year. in the 2017-2018 season, she helped lead the Lady Bulldogs to their first ever Passaic County Championship title. Currently, she is crucial to the 3-0 start to the 2018-2019 season. This season, she looks to firmly etch her name to the school’s record book as she attempts to improve her individual and team relay records. Symi, a resident of Ringwood, is a student-athlete in the Academy of Medical Arts with a 4.128 GPA. She ranks in the top 10% of her graduating class. The Athletic department would like to wish Symi and the entire Lady Bulldogs Swim team all the best in the 2018-2019 season. Piero Urtega is a four-year varsity starter who: Is a dominating leader and a captain for the PCTI Boys Swim Team. Piero is a large part of the success the team has experienced over the past three seasons. He consistently contributes points in all events at every dual meet and demonstrates an amazing level of integrity and sportsmanship in the pool and on the field as one of PCTI’s standout soccer student-athletes. In his PCTI swimming career, Piero has earned All-County and All-League honors for the past 3 years. He has also qualified for the NJISAA State Meet of Champions for the last 3 seasons and was an integral part of the team’s last two state sectional championship titles. Piero holds two school relay records in the 200 freestyle and the 400 freestyle. This student-athlete is a resident of Clifton and a member the Academy of Information Technology. He has a GPA of 3.131 and ranks in the top half of his class. Piero has his sights set on a number of schools, but hopes to attend NJIT with the opportunity to play soccer. The Athletic department would like to wish Piero and the entire Bulldogs Swim team the best in the 2018-2019 season. Nicole ArakakiNicole Arakaki is a young woman from Clifton who has been passionate about dancing since she was four years old. As she grew, so did her dedication to training. “I was looking to broaden my knowledge and experience and challenge myself,” Nicole says. It’s no wonder she decided to develop her craft as a member of PCTI’s School of Performing Arts, Dance.
She yearns to become a professional dancer and has pursued every avenue to ensure her dream becomes a reality. Nicole has participated in summer programs and intensives to further hone her craft. She’s also danced in numerous choreographed performances while attending PCTI. It’s clear that Nicole has developed the discipline that’s often associated with those who train their bodies and minds. She’s active in NJROTC, ERASE, and is a Teacher’s Assistant/ Program Representative for dance. In addition, Nicole is a member of the World Language Honor Society, the National Society for High School Scholars, and is an inductee for the National Honor Society for Dance Arts. She was selected for PCTI’s Circle of Success and was a Governor’s Award winner for Artistic Excellence and Leadership in Dance. It comes as no surprise that Nicole has achieved Principal’s Honor Roll throughout her high school career and ranks in the top three percent of her class with a GPA of 4.24! She has the potential to graduate with twenty-three college credits. When Nicole reflects on the journey of combining her passion with a future career, she mentions how challenging pursuing her dream has been. “I’m not naturally flexible in terms of dancing. Learning to work with my body has taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Still, I wouldn’t do anything else.” After high school, Nicole aims to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance, with a focus on the modern dance style. She will apply to Montclair State University, Stockton, Pace, NYU, and Marymount University. She’s also interested in studying Physical Therapy. When asked about the opportunities presented by PCTI, Nicole expresses gratitude for the experiences afforded by the dance program. “We’ve seen companies perform, took field trips to NJPAC, and learned so much from guest choreographers - my artistry as a dancer has really grown.” Congratulations to a young woman whose passion has pushed her to persevere in the dancing world. Your diligence and hard work will ensure much future success! Highlights
James Mickens Jr.James Mickens Jr. is an ambitious Haledon native who elected to study as a member of the Academy of Criminal Justice and Public Safety. When asked why, he says, “I’ve always been intrigued by shows like CSI and Law and Order. I also enjoy helping people and serving my community.”
His decision to enter the Criminal Justice program was also influenced by his mother who immigrated to the United States. “I want to make sure that I can help everyone, especially those who’ve had their voices suppressed or their rights taken away.” It’s no surprise that, in the future, James intends to become a Civil Rights Attorney. His unparalleled drive has already ensured that he has accomplished much. James has been declared a College Board National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar, has achieved Principal’s Honor throughout his high school career, was selected for PCTI’s Freshmen Foundation for Success and Circle of Success, is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, and participated in New Jersey Boys State. The fully immersive government experience sparked his interest in politics and helped lay the foundation for his current career path. At PCTI, James is involved in ERASE, Mock Trial, Student Council/Interact, GSA, National History Club, and the World Language Honor Society. In his free time, he volunteers with the March of Dimes and acts as a student ambassador for our school. Despite his busy schedule, James has maintained a GPA of 4.32 and ranks in the top two percent of his class. He hasthe potential to graduate with thirty-three college credits and holds certifications in CPR, First Aid, as well as a Working APCO Dispatcher. James looks forward to broadening his horizons and will apply to schools outside of the metropolitan area, including the University of Southern California and the University of California. He will also apply to Rutgers, Seton Hall, and the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. James plans to obtain dual undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Philosophy. He will eventually attend law school and receive a Juris Doctorate. When asked what valuable lesson he’s learned while attending PCTI, James says, “Keep an open mind to different perspectives. There will always be highs and lows in life, but it’s how you deal with them that defines who you are. I’m stronger because of all the people I’ve connected with while attending high school.” Congratulations to this big-hearted Bulldog who will undoubtedly go on to help others! Highlights
View the PDF Thanya BegumThanya Begum is a young woman with a passion for creativity. Yearning to cultivate her artistic talents, this Paterson local joined the School of Communication Arts.
“I’ve always enjoyed drawing and figured I would want to do something art-related,” she explains. Thanya soon found out that it was the creativity of the problem-solving process that she truly enjoys. Thus, this brilliant Bulldog plans to pursue a career in Engineering. “When you think about it, engineering is a form of art. It takes a lot of creativity to solve problems the way engineers do.” Thanya arrived at this decision over the summer while engaging in extensive research, an act of preparedness that can be traced throughout numerous areas of her life. At PCTI, she elected to take countless honors and AP courses. Such academic foresight resulted in her ranking third in the Class of 2019 with a GPA of 4.55! Thanya has the potential to graduate with thirty-nine college credits. She has achieved Principal’s Honor Roll throughout her entire high school career, was selected for the Foundation for Success, and was recognized as a National Merit Commended Scholar and AP Scholar with Honor. Most recently, Thanya has been declared a QuestBridge National College Match Finalist. If announced a QuestBridge Scholar, Thanya’s undergraduate education will be paid for in full. After graduation, she will go on to pursue an education in either Mechanical or Software Engineering. She’s interested in learning about coding and robotics. Thanya is applying to the following universities: Rutgers, Stevens, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon, NYU, Princeton, Columbia, Yale, Brown, and MIT. “I look forward to taking a shot at the ivy leagues,” she adds. When asked about valuable experiences at PCTI, Thanya mentions that diversity and meeting new people is at the top of her list. “If I stayed in my hometown, I would never have had the opportunity to meet people and make new friends.” She also has fantastic advice for those looking to broaden their horizons. “Learn for learning’s sake, not solely with the goal of grades in mind. Enjoy your classes and teachers.” Congratulations to this astute Bulldog! May your desire to achieve great things continue throughout the rest of your life! Highlights
Andrea RoyAndrea Roy is a young woman of Hawthorne who elected to study as a member of PCTI’s Academy of Medical Arts. Her selection was influenced, in part, by her family’s involvement in the nursing field.
“Originally I wanted to study Child Development,” she offers, “but I began enjoying Medical Arts more than I thought I would. It ended up really working out.” Andrea is an opportunist who makes the best of every situation. “I really believe that you have to be open to different areas of learning. What you want to do will change a lot throughout high school.” As a member of the Academy of Medical Arts, Andrea has earned certifications in First Aid, as a CNA, and is working towards CPR. She was selected as a member of the Freshmen Foundation for Success and has achieved Principal’s Honor Roll throughout most of her high school career. This outstanding young woman is dedicated to her studies and has taken numerous AP and honors courses. She currently ranks 7th in her class with a GPA of 4.37! It’s no surprise that she has the potential to graduate with thirty-five college credits. In addition to her successful academic career, Andrea is the President of both Book Club and Gifted & Talented. She’s a member of HOSA, Student Council, CSA, ERASE, and LEAP. Andrea was selected for the National Honors Society and, outside of school, acts as Vice President for Keystone - a Boys and Girls Club program in her hometown. She’s also volunteered with an assisted living facility and her church youth group. During her sophomore year, she worked with the Girl Rising organization - a global campaign for girls’ education and empowerment - and raised fifteen hundred dollars in donations. After graduation, Andrea will continue her education in the field of Biology. “I want to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health or go to medical school for Psychology and Pediatrics,” she says. Andrea will be applying to NYU, the Honors College at Rutgers University, Princeton, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania. When asked about advice she’d give to her fellow classmates, Andrea said, “To get the best educational experience, it’s important to adapt to change and be able to thrive. Look at where you are, where you want to be, and how to get there. People have the potential to do amazing things in life.”. Congratulations, Andrea! We wish you the very best on your educational journey and in life! Highlights
View the PDF Congratulations to Caitlin Kucuk (Cheering), Ray’Vaughn Clark (Football), Neimar Santouse (Football), and Natasha Crespo (Cheerleading), PCTI’s November Athletes of the Month! Caitlin Kucuk is a four-year varsity letter winner who: Has been a co-captain of the cheerleading team during her junior and senior years. Her leadership and dedication to the program has heavily influenced the team’s overall success. Caitlin has cheered on a combination of our football, basketball, and competition cheerleading teams throughout her four years at Tech and has become a vital part of the team. As a member of the Academy of Medical Arts, Caitlin is a hardworking student-athlete who has maintained a 3.5 GPA and ranks in the top third of her graduating class. Natasha Crespo is a four-year varsity letter winner who: Has been a dedicated co-captain during her senior year who challenged her fellow teammates to be their very best. Natasha has cheered on a combination of our football, basketball, and competition cheerleading teams, and was one of three ninth graders to make the competition team during her freshman year. As a member of the Academy of Medical Arts, Natasha is a hardworking individual who embodies her role as a student-athlete. She maintains a 4.1 GPA and ranks in the top ten percent of her graduating class. Ray’Vaughn Clark is a three-year varsity starter who: As a senior, he helped lead the Bulldogs to yet another playoff appearance in the North Jersey Super Football Conference Liberty-Red division. Ray’Vaughn is a versatile running back who has made key contributions offensively, defensively, and on special teams. He is being acknowledge for his offensive prowess and has rushed over 750 yards with seven touchdowns on the ground with one receiving touchdown. Ray’Vaughn was a weapon on special teams where he ran for over 300 yards on kick returns. A highlight of the season occurred during his kick-return for a touchdown against Hackensack when he carried players on his back en route to the end-zone. For his efforts, this leader of the Bulldogs’ offense was selected to First Team All Division - Liberty Red, at the Running Back position. As a member of the School of Automotive Technology, Ray’Vaughn is currently weighing his options with college and career choice and looks to increase his possibilities with successful seasons in Winter and Spring Track. Neimar Santouse is a three-year varsity starter who: As a senior, he also helped lead the Bulldogs to yet another playoff appearance in the North Jersey Super Football Conference Liberty-Red division. Neimar is a versatile player and the leader of the Bulldog’s defense. He made the ultimate sacrifice moving from cornerback to free safety in his senior season for the benefit of the Bulldog defense. He was a superb pass and runner-stopper from his new free safety position. This year, Neimar led the team with 92 total tackles, averaged 10.2 tackles per game, had two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. For his efforts as the leader of the Bulldogs’ defense, Neimar was selected to First Team All Division - Liberty Red, at the Defensive Back position. As a member of the School of Construction Technology, Neimar is a hardworking individual who embodies his role as a student-athlete. He maintains a 3.2 GPA and ranks in the top half of his graduating class. Neimar is also weighing his options with college choice and looks to increase his possibilities with successful seasons in both Winter and Spring Track. Congratulations to Kayla Nelson (Volleyball) and Renee Angello (Tennis), PCTI’s October Athletes of the Month! Kayla Nelson is a four-year varsity letter winner who: As a senior and team Co-Captain, has led the girls’ volleyball team through a successful fall 2018 campaign. It’s worthy to note that Kayla is a two-year team captain. Her leadership and dedication to the program have heavily influenced the team’s overall success over the last three seasons. Kayla’s ability to remain poised and focused during the most critical moments of play have helped the Bulldogs to advance and capture, for the third consecutive time, a Big North Liberty Division Title. They also advanced to the Passaic County Tournament Finals for the first-time in school history! Kayla’s versatility, leadership, and willingness to contribute from any position has clearly led to great things this season. Her official statistics at the end of twenty contests include: 90 kills, 43 digs, 74 service-points with 19 aces. The team is currently 21-4 overall with an 8-0 record within the Big North Liberty Division, laying claim to the “Three-Peat” as BNC Champions. In the classroom, Kayla embodies her role as a student-athlete; she is a member of the School of Education and Human Services (Child Development) and maintains a 3.4 GPA. Kayla aspires to major in education and to one day teach children with disabilities. Her experience in the Child Development CTE at PCTI has positively paved this path. The Lady Bulldogs Volleyball team, Coach Pudup, and the entire athletic department would like to congratulate Kayla on a fantastic 2018 season and for all of her tremendous accomplishments. Renee Angello is a three-year varsity letter winner who: As a junior and team Captain, has had an incredible season as the leader of the girls’ varsity tennis team. Playing third singles, Renee has been the key factor in leading the Lady Bulldogs’ Tennis team to a 15-3 regular season record. The team also finished in second place at the Comet Invitational Tennis Tournament, where Renee won all three of her highly-competitive matches. In the Passaic County tournament, Renee won her first and second round matches before eventually losing to a tough semi-final opponent from Hawthorne. In the NJSIAA Tennis Tournament, she easily won her match against Bloomfield, securing the Lady Bulldogs “first-ever” home win the state tournament. Her leadership, work ethic, and enthusiasm make her a true coach’s captain and an amazing teammate. In the classroom, Renee embodies her role as student-athlete. She is a member of the School of Communication Arts where she maintains a 4.4 GPA. Renee ranks in the top 3% of her graduating class, is President of SkillsUSA, and a member of many other student organizations (including PCTI’s TI @ TI). What makes Renee’s story even more amazing is that before the start of her sophomore tennis season, she suffered a severe knee injury while attending a student-activities camp, forcing her to miss the entire 2017 season. However, through sheer determination, hard work, and by maintaining a very aggressive physical therapy regimen, Renee returned to the courts in stellar fashion. The Lady Bulldogs Tennis team, Coach Bove, and the entire athletic department would like to congratulate Renee on a fantastic 2018 season and all of her great accomplishments. |