Reflecting on High School with Class of 2021 Valedictorian Matthew Wong

By Jillian Haguisan

Thanks to his hard work, perseverance, and character, Matthew Wong has rightfully earned his title as Valedictorian of the Class of 2021. In addition to playing 1st trombone in the OBHS Wind Ensemble and playing varsity basketball and baseball, Matthew has garnered praise for his many academic achievements throughout his high school career. He will be attending Cornell University in the fall and plans to study chemical engineering. As this unique year comes to end, Matthew sat down to provide some insight on his time at OBHS.

How would you describe your work/study ethic?
“Staying self-motivated, disciplined, and not worrying too much about the result, but instead the process.”

​What will you miss most about high school?
“Oh, definitely my friends and teachers. Without the friendships I have made, high school would've been way different. I formed a lot of close bonds and memories.”

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What is your favorite high school memory?
“The first day of senior year in-person. Both the first day of school, and the first time when all the seniors were here in-person.”

What advice would you give to future students?
“There comes a point in life when you can’t rely on your natural talent to succeed. When the work gets hard, you have to rely on your effort as the driving force for achievement, and you are the sole contributor to this factor. Having discipline and self-motivation are key to a successful life.”

If you could repeat high school, what would you do differently?
“Maybe join a different sport or club, expanding outside of my bubble and not just staying with what I was comfortable with. For example, The Harbour Voice was something that I didn’t expect to join, but I'm very glad that I did.”

Are you satisfied with your high school experience, or do you have some regrets?
“I don't have any regrets. I am very satisfied with my high school experience and everything that I've done, especially the friends that I’ve made.”

What are your expectations for college?
“To have a good balance between schoolwork and just enjoying life as I mature. Get good grades, but also don't get too caught up in the work because college is supposed to be the best four years of your life. So, I really want to enjoy my time in college and make as many meaningful relationships as I did in high school.”

​What was your greatest accomplishment in high school?
“Honestly? Being valedictorian. It shows that all my hard work paid off, and that I have what it takes to succeed at a high level.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2021 Valedictorian, Matthew Wong! On behalf of The Harbour Voice, good luck and have fun at Cornell!