Aliso Niguel’s “Wolverine of the Year” award finalists have officially been announced. Wolverine of the Year is one of the most prestigious awards that a student can receive at Aliso Niguel High School. Presented annually, the award is given to one high school senior who has displayed academic excellence, athletic achievement, leadership and contributions to the community during their high school career.
This year’s finalists consist of an impressive group of individuals: Lilly Carey (12), Quinn Curtis (12), Sanvi Shah (12), Emily Trapp (12) and Katherine Verrando (12). These students have not only excelled inside the classroom, but also in extracurriculars and in volunteering.
When asked what motivated her to pursue such rigorous academic course work, Lilly Carey shared, “I think that when you truly enjoy something, it doesn’t take much motivation to do it. I find myself taking classes that challenge me because I enjoy it, and although it sometimes gets difficult, I love to learn.”
Aspiring to learn, grow and challenge themselves was a recurring theme among many of the finalists. Many credited their success to motivation, family, friends and their teachers.
Being a finalist signifies more than just individual achievement; it reflects a commitment to positively impacting the school and local community. Their determination to make the most of their high school experience has been evident not only in grades and test scores, but in the way they uplift others around them.
Finalist Emily Trapp expressed that, “My goal in life is to always leave something better than what it was when I arrived. I have lived in this community my entire life and over the years I hope I have made a lasting, positive impact on our community.”
Sanvi Shah expressed her gratitude for being chosen as a finalist for this award, and conveyed what winning would mean to her, “The recognition I’ve already gotten as a finalist has been so reassuring. I put in work and effort to make my experience in high school as special as possible not only for myself but those around me. Being recognized for that, admits several other hard working students makes me feel grateful, and pushes me to work more and achieve better in college.”
While each finalist brings something unique to the table, they all share a common thread: a drive to achieve not just for personal success, but for the benefit of others. Whether through tutoring, athletic leadership or volunteer work, they’ve each played a major role in shaping Aliso Niguel’s identity.
The Wolverine of the Year award winner will be announced at the Senior Awards which will take place on Tuesday May 27.
