Class of 2019 Valedictorian: Jason Hom

By Isabella Skvarla

As the 2018-2019 school year comes to a close and students look forward to summer, Oyster Bay High School’s Class of 2019 is making preparations to close one chapter and open another. For Oyster Bay’s Valedictorian, Jason Hom, the end of senior year presents a unique opportunity to reflect on the experiences he has had with his teachers and peers during his time at Oyster Bay. Jason expresses the emotions surrounding the end of high school perfectly, saying, “I have mixed emotions. It’s been something we’ve all been looking forward to as a milestone, but at the same time, it’s strange to be over with this part of my life.”

In addition to his academic success, Jason has been a member of many clubs and honor societies during his time at OBHS. While all of these organizations have taught him a myriad of skills, he feels that Student Council has had the greatest impact on him. “Student Council taught me a lot about leadership and how to work with others to accomplish a goal.” Jason will carry this skillset with him as he begins college at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering, where he is excited to begin the next part of his life. “I’m excited to meet new people and join new clubs. I’ve always wanted to try indoor rock climbing. I’m also excited to take different classes in order to learn more and be sure of my career choice.”

The anticipation of starting college inevitably comes with a flood of memories from high school. For Jason, the moment that is most prominent in his memory is one that the entire grade can be proud of as well. “The moment when we finished our senior year lip sync. I participated in every lip sync in OBHS and seeing our progression from freshmen to seniors was rewarding. It was also sad that it was our last lip sync, but it was amazing to finally get 1st place after getting last place for the last 3 years.” 

As the school year comes to an end, Jason has one final message to his fellow graduates: “Thank you for being such a great group of people whom I will always remember. From the first day of Kindergarten to our final lip sync performance, we’ve had so many memories together. From eating with our hands at Medieval Times, to our Senior Spirit Week, to these last few weeks of school, I will always enjoy the memories we’ve made together. I wish you all the best in everything you hope to accomplish.”