Wildwood High School Top Two College-Bound

WILDWOOD — With four-tenths of one point separating them, Wildwood High School’s valedictorian and salutatorian are of the same mindset – it takes a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence to become the best of the best.
This year’s top two graduating seniors, valedictorian Lily Nguyen and salutatorian James Grauel agreed that their quest for excellence started when they first began their high school experience four years ago.
“It wasn’t too hard,” said Nguyen. “You want to mold your work standard. You want to make sure you’re on top of everything.” Nguyen has been number one in her class for the past four years.
“After freshman year, I stepped it up,” Grauel said. “I had to try and it was worth it.”
Both students are college-bound this fall. Each was accepted by a long list of colleges. Nguyen will study at the University of Southern Florida and Grauel will begin his college career at Rowan University.
Aside from their academic prowess, Nguyen and Grauel define the word “well-rounded student.” In addition to being first in her class for four years Nguyen participated in sports such as soccer, winter and spring track, National Honor Society, Peer Leaders and Student Council. She is also the school’s Executive Board president. Grauel participated in National Honor Society, Peer Leaders, All Star Trading Card Program, football, Renaissance, basketball and baseball.
In looking back over their high school careers, Nguyen and Grauel were thankful for the support they received from their teachers and academic families. They both noted the support they received from their families – especially their fathers.
“My dad definitely helped in pushing me to be a better student,” Grauel said.
“My dad expects a lot of out me,” said Nguyen.
“These two students are wonderful,” said guidance counselor Michelle Shaw. “They went above and beyond. They’re energetic, polite, respectful, hard-working and they’re every teacher’s dream. They will be missed.”