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Grads to watch

  • Published
    June 6, 2021

    Maine’s Graduates to Watch: Class of 2021

    This month, thousands of young Mainers are making one of life’s great transitions at high school graduations across the state. For this annual feature, we seek out seniors who, because of heart, talent or toughness, are likely to make a difference in the world. And each year the young nominees seem more extraordinary. Staff writer Kelley Bouchard tells the stories of 10 outstanding members of the class of 2021 and their journeys so far. They include several top scholars, athletes, community volunteers and immigrants. There's a young scientist, a skilled carpenter, a math whiz and a certified spinning instructor, along with a few social activists and two young men who plan to serve in the military. They have overcome poverty, homelessness, language barriers, prejudices, preconceptions, debilitating sports injuries and everyday teen insecurities. And they excelled despite a global pandemic that forced them to attend classes online and canceled many club meetings, social gatherings and sports events. Their intended careers include medicine, international relations, the music business, journalism, engineering and architecture. They have already accomplished so much and we can't wait to see what they do next.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    David Botana: Casco Bay High School

    He's a world-class equestrian with a deeply personal reason to become a biomedical engineer.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Ladislas Nzeyimana: Deering High School

    He has become a school and community leader after only four years in the United States.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Haley Stark: Falmouth High School

    She nearly died from a debilitating stroke at age 12 and now she's heading to Harvard.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Nicole Printy: Bonny Eagle High School

    She missed much of her sophomore year while in the hospital but is graduating cum laude with her class.

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  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Joseph Gilbert: Greely High School

    He is a top student and frequent volunteer who plans to study engineering.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Elias Matso: Traip Academy

    He developed a passion for fashion as a young boy and plans to continue his education in New York City.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Deixi Wu: Thornton Academy

    She speaks three languages and plans to become a teacher to help others communicate.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Julia Scholz: Portland Arts and Technology High School

    She became a leader in her class and an advocate for women in professional trades.

  • Published
    June 7, 2020
    Graduates to Watch

    Clairette Kirezi: Greater Portland Christian School

    She helped her family succeed as immigrants and plans to become a doctor to help others.