There’s a lot of chatter about the incredible resumes of our high-achieving teens, as they nab spots at Ivy League schools and are recruited by top college teams. You’ve heard the stories: kids who take five AP courses, play two varsity sports, volunteer on weekends, work part-time, earn perfect GPAs. It seems like a lot of embellishment, parents and kids spinning tales of impossibly crammed schedules.
Well, these ten teens prove that the stories are true…or maybe slightly understated. Record-breaking powerlifter, math prodigy, top wrestler, class president, Eagle Scout, Kung Fu Black Belt, Tournament of Champions debater, Investment Club founder, All-NEPSAC soccer player, Global Scholar, sailing commodore, Night to Shine buddy, data analyst, violist, varsity squash captain, Komera member—this is just a smattering of the titles these supercharged teens can claim. They have too many awards to cram on a page and top colleges clamoring for them.
Introducing our 2025 Teens to Watch. Remember their names, because these young people are sure to change the world: Abe Lobsenz, Aidan Weismann, Bruce Matos, Dash Gilrain-Lennon, Emmett Tolisano, Georgia Bennett, Kate Caporrino, Lars Maechling, Mohini Rathore and Sahana Bettegowda.
GEORGIA BENNETT
St. Lukes
St. Luke’s Storm Award winner Georgia Bennett excelled as a three-sport varsity athlete, Global Scholar and artist during high school. She received accolades across the board for her drive, consistency and compassion. In soccer, the Fairfield resident played on St. Luke’s varsity team junior and senior year (All-NEPSAC Team 2024 and finalist 2023). She was the captain of varsity lacrosse junior and senior year and broke St. Luke’s record, scoring 204 career goals (All-NEPSAC and All-FAA League, 2024). On the court, she was a member of the varsity basketball NEPSAC Championship Team in 2023 and a finalist in 2025.
“Heading into my senior lacrosse season, I set an ambitious goal: to reach 200 career goals,” says Georgia. “I saw it as a culmination of everything I’d poured into the sport: hours of practice, periods of frustration and the resilience I developed along the way. When I scored my 200th goal, it reminded me how powerful goal-setting can be when paired with hard work and belief in yourself.”
Georgia was honored to be invited into St. Luke’s Global Scholars program, a privilege offered to top students. “It wasn’t just a course but was a year long deep dive into global issues, research methodology and collaborative learning,” she says. And the bow on top of her many gifts: winning the St. Luke’s Art Award twice.
Not one to take for granted all the good things in her life, Georgia actively gives back on a local and global scale. She was Vice President of the Building for Nonprofits Club from 2022 to 2025, served as a volunteer camp counselor at CIRI Ukrainian Children’s Camp and also gives her time to the Midnight Run Club and Filling in the Blanks. Working with Ukrainian refugees had the biggest impact on her. “Service is about being present, and sometimes the most impactful thing you can do is simply show up,” says Georgia. “Not to mention I made new friends with people from an extremely different background. We still talk often via our camp group chat!”
Georgia was recruited by Bowdoin for lacrosse and is studying government and law, with a minor in French. “I see myself following an academic path that blends economics with international studies,” she says. “Whether that leads to foreign affairs, international development, policy work or something entirely unexpected, I’m excited to keep learning and see where it takes me.”
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
Balancing the demands of being a three-sport varsity athlete with a rigorous course load and high academic expectations. Managing multiple varsity seasons meant early mornings, long nights and constant physical and mental pressure. There were times when the balancing act tested my endurance, time management and discipline. The challenge wasn’t a singular moment, it was a long stretch of learning how to prioritize, stay focused and maintain personal standards across all areas of my life.
What would you tell your freshman self?
You have this! Each year started with what seemedlike insurmountable challenges but with small steady steps the mountain will fall away.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
If I had to choose two who had the most profound impact, it would be Mr. Schneider (Advanced Physics) and Mr. LeBris (Physics). Mr. Schneider taught me just how much a teacher can have an impact on a student. I took on advanced physics with some fear surrounding the challenging material. However, as the year progressed, with ups and downs, one thing always stayed the same: Mr. Schnieder was there to offer advice, help with tricky problems or cheer me on at sporting events. With his patience and positive attitude, he helped me to build confidence in myself in and out of the classroom. Mr. LeBris had an equally powerful influence because he taught me how to approach problems methodically and never shy away from intellectual risk. His feedback was honest and constructive, which helped me grow from mistakes rather than be discouraged by them. He also came to class every day with an unforgettable humor that made learning incredibly engaging.
Words to live by?
“It will never get easier, so handle hard better.”
—Coach Kara Lawson (Duke Basketball)
SAHANA BETTEGOWDA
Greens Farms Academy
Wilton resident Sahana Bettegowda has a range of passions and talents that have taken her from court to art room and a cappella stage to service across the globe. If she is curious about a topic, Greek mythology for example, she doesn’t just study it, she creates a mythology workshop to share with underserved kids.
Sahana was a varsity squash, tennis and soccer player at GFA. She captained the squash and tennis teams, led the squash team to a New England Championship and won the Coaches Award. “I was the only senior on the team this past year, and entering into the season, I had no idea that we would be capable of winning our division for the first time in ten years,” says Sahana. “We also jumped two divisions for High School Nationals, competing in Division 2 with the top squash teams in the nation.”
Sahana sang with GFA’s a cappella group, Harbor Blues, and also loves art. “I think everybody needs something they can do to escape, and for me that is watercoloring,” she says. “During free periods my senior year I would go to the art room to watercolor and sit in on the AP Art class.” Sahana has also won poetry and writing awards and served as the art director of Penumbra literary magazine.
A Greek Mythology unit in fifth grade caught Sahana’s attention, and she decided then that she would take Latin in high school. As mythology is not taught in all schools, Sahana developed a workshop. “The workshop was designed to introduce the Greek gods and goddesses along with their symbols and powers, and have the students eventually create their own powers and symbols,” says Sahana. “I specifically designed it in this way to teach a basic understanding of Greek mythology, but also to encourage self-confidence from the students through their own gods and goddesses.”
Through GFA’s Komera chapter, Sahana was passionate about supporting women’s education and empowerment in Rwanda. “I was a member all four years of high school and eventually became a leader of the club,” says Sahana. She helped organize and fundraise for a trip to Rwanda to deliver refurbished computers, tablets and cell phones. She was also Co-Chair of GFA’s DEI Board.
Sahana will attend Duke this fall and hopes to explore the overlap between architecture and psychology.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
I had a friend pass away suddenly last year. In addition to dealing with grief, his passing caused me to rethink my priorities and perspective. It’s easy to get caught up in school, sports and stress, and feel like you are just working to get to the next day. But my friend loved every day and lived life in a vibrant, joyful way. After his passing, I made an effort to take on his philosophy of not wasting a minute of life. I opened myself up to meeting new people and appreciating the little things. I have said yes when for years I would’ve said no, and that is only because of him.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Do the things you care about. It’s not embarrassing to care about something or want to learn more. Never let anyone else’s perceptions impact the way you act and carry yourself.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
Mr. Karolinski taught me to laugh, and that conversing is a form of learning. Mrs. O’Grady taught me the power of curiosity and questions. Mr. Dalesio taught me that if you care enough, you can find a way. Dr. Mederer (Doc) taught me that I am more capable than I think, and that frustration is positive because it means you are learning. His class was definitely the hardest I’ve experienced academically, but the most stimulating and exciting classroom to enter.
Words to live by?
“All you can do is try.”
I’ve heard this countless times since I was a little girl. It has guided me in every aspect of my life. No matter what challenge I face, I try to put my best foot forward, as our effort is all we can control.
KATE CAPORRINO
Lauralton Hall
Commodore/President of Pequot Yacht Club Junior Sailing Team, New Canaan Mounted Troop Equestrian Captain, Junior Ambassador/ECHO intern at Maritime Aquarium, Beardsley Zoo intern, Science Club Principal Investigator, Engineering Team, Ski Team, Business Club, Spanish Club, Advanced Vocal Ensemble, Jazz Band, Science Club, Key Club, Peer Mentor, nOURish Bridgeport, Night to Shine buddy—this is just a sampling of Kate Caporrino’s activities!
Meanwhile, the Wilton resident earned a 98% average and won the St. Anselm College Book Award, Frances Warde Service Award, AP Scholar Award and was inducted into the National and Spanish Honor Societies. Earning the Spanish department medal was a highlight. “I’ve always loved learning new languages and have been striving to become fluent in Spanish since third grade, so being honored for my commitment and effort in the subject meant a lot to me,” she says.
Freshman year, Kate joined ski team with no racing experience. “By senior year, I had earned my varsity letter and transformed into a skilled skier, conquering a challenge that once seemed daunting,” says Kate. “That journey from novice to varsity athlete is one of my proudest accomplishments.” A lack of experience also didn’t stop Kate from joining orchestra when they needed a percussionist.
Kate treasured her time as a Peer Mentor to freshmen“I shared everything I wish I knew as a freshman, hoping that aids them in gaining their footing and discovering what excites them as they become comfortable at LH,” she says. “I loved being both a resource and a friendly face during what can be a stressful time.”
Kate’s experience at Maritime Aquarium also stands out. “I loved having the chance to connect with visitors and spark a passion for ocean conservation in them. It’s rewarding to see people walk away knowing their small actions can make a difference for our planet,” says Kate. She recalls a specific moment at the aquarium that inspired her to pursue environmental stewardship. “I saw an entire wall covered with plastic waste—bottle caps, bags, everyday things—gathered from nearby beaches. It was shocking to see the direct effects of pollution in my own community. That display made something abstract feel so real, and I realized how important it is for people to connect with these issues personally. Since then, I’ve wanted to use my communication skills to inspire others to care and take action for our planet.”
Kate will be majoring in communications at University of Southern California this fall.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
Competing in a sailing regatta in 2024 with intense wind conditions and a new boat I barely knew how to handle. I capsized multiple times and struggled not just physically but mentally as everyone around me was quitting. I refused to give up and instead chose to adapt my strategy to the circumstances and keep pushing forward. Finishing the race taught me that true success often comes from resilience, perseverance and adaptability. I’m grateful for the confidence I gained from overcoming that day’s obstacles.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Embrace new experiences, even when they feel intimidating. The moments you spend outside your comfort zone often become the most memorable, and you’re capable of more than you realize. Also, remind yourself to take a step back every once in a while to enjoy the moment. Talk to everyone and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
Over three of my four years at LH, Mrs. Gorman was my English teacher and had such an enormous impact on me. I’ve always enjoyed writing and expressing myself creatively, but it was her contagious passion that truly ignited my love for communication and liberal arts. She showed me that there’s no single “right” answer when it comes to creative expression and that there’s beauty in its individuality. She’s a huge reason why I chose to study communications.
Words to live by?
Ever since I was little, I’ve loved the saying:
“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
It reminds me to never be afraid to go for my dreams and challenge myself, even when things feel uncertain.
DASH GILRAIN-LENNON
St. Luke’s
You don’t want to get into a debate with St. Luke’s grad Dash Gilrain-Lennon. The Westporter has argued circles around the top debate team students in the nation. He and his debate team partner made history as the first- ever team from Connecticut to qualify for the Tournament of Champions, where they placed second in 2024. Dash is also among the few debaters in history to get bids to that prestigious tournament in the Public Forum, Policy and Lincoln-Douglas categories. He also won St. Luke’s History and English Awards in 2023.
This past year, Dash won the John Edie Holiday round-robin debates hosted by The Blake School, was the top seed and a semifinalist at the Newark Invitational, was a semifinalist at the Lakeland Tournament, and again earned bids to the TOC. Last year, he was named champion of the Policy division at the University of Pennsylvania Liberty Bell Classic, was ranked No. 4 in Public Forum and had the highest number of National Speech & Debate Association points among debaters in Connecticut.
“I became obsessed with debate in my freshman and sophomore year, when I got out of my local circuit,” says Dash, whose friend convinced him to try it in eighth grade. “I saw how much better the top competitors were, which made me want to improve to get to their level. I think I succeeded in debate by learning to be adaptable. The topic is always changing, and your opponent and judge change every round. You need to let go of the idea you can control every little thing, and focus on building skills and strategies that will give you options to roll with the punches.”
Dash was also an active member of the Chess Club. He offered free chess coaching and lessons through the New Canaan Library and provided volunteer debate coaching and judging through NOVA DEBATE, a free, online debate camp. He has also interned at The Door, a child advocacy organization, helping to draft grant applications and organize databases.
Dash will major in English or political science this fall at UC Berkeley. He is also sure to be a huge asset to Berkeley’s policy debate program, which has a long history of national level success. “After college I want to go to law school,” says Dash. “Right now, I think a lot of public-sector law, especially constitutional law, is super interesting, but I’m not fixated on one specific endpoint.”
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
The biggest challenge for me was time management and organization. I always had a lot of time-consuming interests in and outside of school and, left to my own devices, I’ll sometimes forget about things until I’m in a real time crunch. Especially my senior year, I had to learn to plan my time out earlier on because otherwise it could be unmanageable. Fortunately, becoming more organized has made my life a lot less stressful. It’s surprising what you can make work with some planning and rescheduling.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Don’t worry too much about how everything’s going to turn out. You’re never going to be able to control everything, and things will turn out way different than you could ever predict in the long run, so you should try to focus on what’s right in front of you.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
My chemistry teacher, Mr. Lebris, had the biggest impact on me. For the most part, my interests in high school leaned very heavily toward the humanities. But the way he taught chemistry really caught my attention and lead to me taking two more years of chemistry classes with him. Those classes were two of the hardest I ever took, but through those classes I learned how to approach learning and studying material which takes time to come to you, which really helped me grow.
Words to live by?
“And now that you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good.”
—John Steinbeck
ABE LOBSENZ
Staples High School
Westporter Abe Lobsenz was Class of 2025 valedictorian. While it seems like maintaining the grades needed to nab that title might be all consuming, Abe did not spend four years with his nose in a book. Sure, he was co-captain of the math team, but he balanced that bookish activity with competitive powerlifting in his spare time. “I picked up a few state records lifting weights,” notes Abe. He also got the highest score on CTs 3rd American regional math (ARML) team, published a paper/software on cell imaging in a preprint journal that’s racked up close to 200 downloads, did some science research, created a website for personal research projects and socially advocated on behalf of Staples’ We the People team.
Abe made time to volunteer at the Westport Book Shop. “My coworkers and managers always made my time there interesting, and spared no effort to show kindness to one another—and customers, of course,” comments Abe.
As far as academics, not surprisingly, Abe is most excited about math. “Beyond the ‘math is beautiful’ argument that has been spoken and heard by most every aspiring math student,” he says, “I think math has a unique advantage over most other subjects: 95 percent of your time is spent thinking, the remaining 5 percent doing. There is no spacing out, there is no mind wandering to what you’re going to have for dinner tonight—it’s just pure, unfettered focus. That’s pretty cool to me.”
In his valedictorian speech, Abe shared a message of retaining part of your childish self when transitioning into adulthood: “I gave the example that I still check under my bed at night out of habit from childhood, even though I lifted a barbell on the podium to show the audience that I had more strength than when I was younger—in case, you know, I needed to fight the monsters.”
Abe will be at Dartmouth this fall as a Jack Byrne scholar. “That comes with $5,000 during off terms for use in a research/internship context, so I’m excited to direct those funds to trying out a bunch of different—mostly STEM—fields,” he says.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
I was hospitalized for bradycardia during my first few weeks of freshman year. Health complications had driven my heart rate down to 32 BPM. Fortunately, it was reversible, but it still put me and my family through a lot of stress and uncertainty. Looking back on that time, it also negatively impacted my self-esteem. Throughout high school, I worked hard to make up for that, and not in an academic sense. I made good friends, met great mentors and learned how to let my personality shine through.
What would you tell your freshman self?
I’d tell him to take more chances, even if it meant a greater risk, in the pursuit of acting like the real Abe.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
At least half a dozen teachers at Staples had a monumental impact on me in some way, shape or form. I’ll answer with Mr. Forgette, though, my precalculus teacher and math team faculty coordinator. This man taught me something far more valuable than math: the ability to appreciate it rather than just use it. It was the first class where understanding the concepts wasn’t enough to earn full credit, even if you got everything on the tests correct. You had to show that you felt these concepts and that you could innovate with them. Beyond his curiosity-supporting teaching style, he’s also just a great, amazingly fun dude.
Words to live by?
One thing that I feel only people close to me know about me is that I’m a massive foodie. As I answer this, I’m sitting in a cafe in New York after essentially walking around and eating all day. I also cook nearly every meal I eat when I’m not traveling. So the following words suit the way I choose to live life nicely:
Don’t say, “I’ve got to eat dinner,” but “I get to eat dinner,”
and make sure you enjoy every bite.
LARS MAECHLING
Fairfield Prep
Lars Maechling is a scholar who balances his academic curiosity with enthusiastic and noble service to others. Lars is an Eagle Scout who has devoted himself to civic engagements—town hall meetings, parades, laying wreaths and flags on veterans’ graves—and service projects. Sleeping in a church basement and waking to serve breakfast in a NYC soup kitchen, distributing new clothing and supplies to the homeless—these are just several examples of many.
“Like my experience at Prep, I appreciate Scouting for its formational impact on my development,” says Lars. “Scouting lifted me up as a young man. It taught me character and the importance of humility. Along with that, I made some of my closest friends and best mentors within the program.” Lars has also volunteered with Filling in the Blanks, which battles childhood food insecurity, and he has traveled to the Dominican Republic for a week volunteering with Mustard Seed Communities.
At Prep, Lars was elected to student government for three years and served as Vice President senior year. He was selected to moderate when Prep held a special assembly on government with a Republican state senator and Democratic state representative. Lars participated in the Political Awareness Club, served as a Student Ambassador, hosted a German exchange student and traveled to Germany to stay with a host family. As a National Honor Society member, he was a sought-after peer tutor for underclassmen. He set a good example, with his nose always in a variety of books: mysteries, adventures, novels, and nonfiction books on any topic that would broaden his knowledge.
Lars was an athlete on the track team, throwing shot put, and the freshman football team, and a mathlete in Math Club. “The high points in my mathlete career were those ‘aha’ moments–the breakthroughs made working together as a team. I’ll always look back fondly on those moments spent with my friends, huddled around a whiteboard.”
His grades placed Lars among the elite students in his graduating class. This fall he will be studying chemistry at Boston College. He adds, “I am currently planning on becoming a U.S. Army Officer through Boston College’s ROTC Program.”
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
The greatest challenge I’ve faced was working off 50 pounds after my freshman year. I committed myself to dropping the weight I’d gained over a two-year period playing football. The goal was reached in four months, made possible by a program I’d created for myself. It was arduous at times, yet I learned that anything is possible with a disciplined mind.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Read more books. Reading, I’ve noticed, has been key to my growth in school and in my personal life. Through books, I’ve also discovered new interests. Recently, self-help and personal finance books have been receiving the bulk of my time. My favorite titles include Deep Work by Cal Newport and Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins. I think reading is a key habit to success in anything.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
My freshman year Theology I teacher, Mr. Milazzo, has had the biggest impact on me. His class inspired my worldview and ignited my faith. After I finished Theology I, he continued to support me in both my academic and personal self-improvement journeys. Mr. Milazzo has always cheered me on, and I am extremely grateful for the positive impact that he has had on my life. He has also been a great mentor to my younger brother, David.
Words to live by?
“The good day starts the day before. The good week starts the week before. Be prepared.”
Preparation is a huge part of my life. I have noticed that readying things in advance has the power to relieve stress, and it has the capacity to dramatically improve whatever event or task you are anticipating. At home, I prepare my meals weekly, and I also have become best friends with my calendar notebook.
BRUCE MATOS
Weston High School
Bruce Matos is one of those students whose accomplishments would fit more comfortably into a book, not a page. The rising senior was awarded AP Scholar With Honors his junior year, when his course load included four APs. He is an Eagle Scout, a black belt in Kung Fu, founder/president of the HOSA Health Professionals Club at WHS, Secretary-General of Model UN, and still has energy to run 300 meter hurdles on the track team.
“I joined Scouting in first grade, and it has shaped who I’ve become,” says Matos, “In eighth grade, I discovered the Joshua’s Heart Foundation (JHF). What excited me is that it isn’t just an organization helping to fight food insecurity, it is also youth led. The first time I joined one of JHF’s weekly calls, I got to hear students my age not just volunteering, but leading, brainstorming and being trusted and encouraged to drive change.”
Soon after that, Bruce co-founded the JHF Connecticut Junior Advisory Board, helping expand JHF’s mission to CT. Eventually, Bruce became the head of the Partners & Sponsors team and was responsible for presenting to donors. “I learned how to engage corporate donors and build long-term partnerships,” explains Bruce.
“Over the past 18 months, our P&S team raised over $43,000 from corporate sponsors, which has impacted more than 1500 families.” Bruce spent a year organizing a food drive that culminated in distributing over 12,000 pounds of food to underserved residents in South Florida last February. “I witnessed how meeting basic needs can build dignity and hope in so many ways. Each bag I distributed reminded me that at our core at JHF, we weren’t just handing out groceries, we were contributing to the well-being of an entire community,” says Bruce.
As a black belt in Kung Fu, Bruce has been an assistant instructor for two years at SDSS studio in Wilton and offers free classes in the community. “Kung Fu has shown me how physical discipline can transform a mindset, and it’s part of what sparked my interest in the connection between movement, the brain and behavior,” he says. As a summer intern in the Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences, Bruce has been researching how martial arts training in adolescents impacts neuroplasticity. His scholarly awards are too many to list!
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
Watching my father recover from a debilitating stroke that left him permanently disabled. It instantly upended his world and the family had to suddenly adapt to the outcome. Moments of fear and uncertainty also lead to moments that taught me strength, resilience and empathy. That experience is what first sparked my interest in research and neuroscience, and it’s the reason I aim to lead with compassion and pursue science with purpose.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Have faith in yourself. Trust that you are who you are supposed to be right now, and confidence will come with time and experience. Go ahead and embrace those awkward and difficult moments because they are part of your evolution and will transform you into someone stronger than you can imagine.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
My parents tell me “it takes a village,” and I think that’s very true. I’ve been lucky to have several mentors and teachers that have had a huge impact on me. Ms. Christine, my Kung Fu instructor, has taught me confidence and how to lead with intent; Ms. Claudia and Josh at JHF have believed in my abilities even when I didn’t and taught me not to second-guess myself; I will be forever grateful to my AP Language Arts teacher, Ms. Roehl, for teaching me the power of words and opening a wholenew world of expression for me; and my mom, for teaching me by example the true meaning of grit!
Words to live by?
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
MOHINI RATHORE
Wilton High School
Mohini Rathore quite possibly has a clone we don’t know about, because how can one person be a top player on Wilton High School’s varsity tennis team; director of public relations for Ms. President US; a data analyst at Wilton Hindu Mandir; a violist with her school’s Symphonic Orchestra; and a volunteer at Norwalk Hospital’s Emergency and Neurology Departments, Filling in the Blanks and ACEing Autism? She also earned her Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish. All this, and Mohini is only just entering her senior year in high school.
Mohini was captain of her tennis team and voted Most Improved in 2025. She is an FCIAC semifinalist and won the deciding match against Darien to clinch Wilton’s win against the rival for the first time in five years!
In her role as director of public relations for Ms. President US, Mohini oversees strategic communication efforts to empower young girls in politics. “By crafting impactful narratives, managing media outreach and organizing mentorship programs, I help equip the next generation of female leaders with the skills and confidence to engage in political and civic life,” explains Mohini. She also authored a published article, “Ms. President US Mobilizes Future Female Leaders in Statewide Event,” highlighting the organization’s efforts to inspire young women.
At Wilton Hindu Mandir, Mohini has developed the temple’s social media strategy to engage younger generations. Her grasp of Hindi helps with minimizing language barriers and ensuring all community members are aware and included in activities.
As a volunteer for ACEing Autism, Mohini teaches tennis to children with autism, thereby enhancing their motor skills, social engagement and confidence. “I tailor my communication and teaching methods to each child’s unique needs, ensuring they feel confident and included. Through group sessions, I’ve helped children build not only tennis skills but also important social and emotional growth, contributing to their overall well-being,” she says.
Mohini is passionate
about healthcare and hopes to pursue a career at the intersection of research and patient care. At Norwalk Hospital, she supports patients and medical professionals, facilitating patient care, streamlining medical records, training new volunteers and ensuring efficient hospital operations. “My role extends beyond clerical work—I provide direct assistance to patients, ensuring their comfort, aiding with meals and fostering a compassionate healthcare setting,” she says. Mohini is considering majoring in healthcare administration or public health. “As I continue to explore my passions, I plan to combine my academic knowledge, leadership experience and community-focused values to create meaningful change in the healthcare field,” she says.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
Questioning my abilities was a significant challenge that often kept me from voicing my thoughts or stepping outside my comfort zone. This doubt made it difficult to take risks or fully express myself. Gradually, I built confidence in my skills and began seeking new opportunities to grow. With every step, I overcame hesitation and learned to embrace challenges as chances for personal and academic growth.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Enjoy your time on the tennis courts and don’t worry about the final score. The real joy comes from playing, bonding with teammates, and improving your skills through regular practice.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
My physics teacher, Mr. Durkee, taught me the importance of persistence. He made the classroom a welcoming place where I felt comfortable asking for help. He encouraged me to explore new ideas, learn from my mistakes and share my thoughts openly. This supportive environment helped me develop a love for learning that I carry today. Jan, my volunteer supervisor at Yale New Haven Hospital, deepened my passion for healthcare by showing me how powerful kindness and understanding can be in patient care. She welcomed each patient with a warm smile and spoke with empathy, making every interaction feel personal and meaningful. By watching and learning from her, I developed the ability to communicate with the same openness and compassion.
Words to live by?
“Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do.”
— Brené Brown
EMMETT TOLISANO
Fairfield Prep
Fairfield Prep grad Emmett Tolisano was a leader at school and devoted himself to giving back. He volunteered with nOURish Bridgeport for the last few years, participated in several builds for Habitat for Humanity, and worked as a volunteer baseball coach (which turned into a paid assistant coaching job). Emmett was part of Prep’s Cardinal Key Society and Stock Market Club, and he is co-founder of the Student Investment Club.
“The service activity that has meant the most to me has been volunteering at NOURrish Bridgeport, which is ten minutes from my house,” says the Fairfield resident. “I went basically every Thursday to prepare meals during the school year, and I still go now. It means a lot to me because it’s the next town over. I feel very fortunate to live in a really great place, but it’s important for me to understand that just 10 or 15 minutes away, there are people who are not as fortunate, and they’re really hungry. Bridgeport is a food desert, which means there are not a lot of places to easily buy good, healthy food.”
Emmett led the three-day Kairos Retreat for students, dedicating months to planning it. He gave a presentation on character at The National Honor Society induction ceremony and has represented Prep at several conferences.
Emmett’s Spanish teacher introduced him to the Stock Market Club sophomore year, and soon he was taking on a leadership role. “The president and I came up with the idea to have our own student-managed investment fund, modeled off of Fairfield University’s student-managed investment fund. We were lucky enough to have them come in a few times over the past few years to present to us about theirs,” explains Emmett. Junior year they created a mock portfolio and pitched it to the Board. “We asked for $30,000 and they ended up giving us $100,000,” says Emmett, who spent his senior year getting the bylaws, procedures, leadership and membership established. “We were lucky enough to buy our first few stocks and do our first few trades,” he says. “Getting this going on the right path was all that mattered to me, because I know it can be something that will last years at Prep.” A percentage of earnings will be invested back into the school.
Emmett will be studying finance at Boston College this fall.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
I don’t think there’s necessarily one greatest challenge, but there have been hurdles. Fall of senior year was really tough. There was a lot going on: classes and college applications and starting a new club, and I was the leader of a couple clubs. Then my grandfather passed away. That was one of the harder parts of my Prep career. I actually lost both grandfathers during high school, the other sophomore year. My parents always say: Just keep pushing, keep your head down and seek out good resources to help you, and that’s what helped me still be successful through those times.
What would you tell your freshman self?
Not to say no. Get involved more than you think you should. Be open to meeting new people. Make the most of your time at Prep: go to the sports games, music events, all the activities that you can.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
Mr. Tremblay was my Spanish teacher for three years and moderated the Stock Market Club. I also was part of his tutoring program, helping underclassmen with their Spanish work every Tuesday morning. He had a large impact on me because of the amount of time I spent with him. He guided me on how to go about things at school, how to write a good email, how to talk to adults. Mrs. Lombardi, my dean, was also a resource and an outlet for me. I could show up in her office at any time and ask her a question or ask for advice. I’m sure any Prep kid would say this because her door is always open.
Words to live by?
“Love the life you live and live the life you love.”
—Bob Marley.
And:
“Honesty is the best policy.”
AIDAN WEISMANN
Greens Farms Academy
We’ve all heard the term “well-rounded,” but Westport’s Aidan Weismann takes the concept to superhuman extremes: varsity wrestler and lacrosse player, nationally ranked squash player, Student Council President, budding fashion designer. Aidan displays a rare combination of grit and creativity. Comfort zone? It’s not in his vocabulary.
Aidan was ranked in the top 80 nationally in squash when he decided to change sports his sophomore year at GFA. He picked up lacrosse and wrestling as fast as Clark Kent can do a quick-change in a phone booth. He played lacrosse for the rest of high school. Junior year, Aidan wrestled on the varsity team, and he competed nationally on the Prep team senior year. “That team ended up being ranked number one in Connecticut and also New England, which was a huge honor to be a part of,” says Aidan. “I was hesitant to train with people that were competing at such a high level, but the guys on both my sports teams really became family. I wouldn’t be the same person without them.”
As Student Council President senior year, Aidan helped reshape the culture around spirit weeks and sporting events, incorporating activities that made “everyone in the school feel connected.” He adds, “I also served on the Judicial Council, which meant helping guide conversations around accountability and community standards, which was a pretty serious responsibility. It taught me a lot about fairness and integrity. It was another way, a more intense way, of creating a meaningful culture.”
Aidan was also vice president of the Community Service Board and helped coordinate the October Food Drive, supporting more than 500 families; the Angel Tree program, providing holiday gifts for 150 children; and weekly service programs with local organizations. “That work meant a lot to me as well,” he says, “because it had a real impact and you got to see it firsthand. I got to help lead and shape those projects throughout the year, which made me very proud.”
Intrigued by observing how people express themselves through clothes, Aidan also has an interest in fashion design. “I started thrifting, reworking clothes and then sketching my own designs,” he says. Aidan has already begun developing concepts for a brand and studied fashion design at Parsons’ Paris campus in July. He will attend Wake Forest this year and sees his future melding design and entrepreneurship.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
Probably letting go of the need to have everything figured out. I’ve always been someone who wants to do things perfectly, so examples like quitting squash, which had been my identity for years, forced me to redefine what success and growth look like. Taking risks in sports, leadership, creative work—that all helped me realize that failure is where the progress happens.
What would you tell your freshman self?
To try things that I’m scared to try. Sounds cliche, but especially the things you think you’re not built for. Some of the most important parts of my high school and life experience came from things I almost didn’t do because I was afraid of failing or looking out of place: joining wrestling, starting to design clothes, taking on leadership roles. I’d tell myself to stop worrying so much about being good at something right away. Growth usually happens in places where you feel a little out of place and out of your depth, so that’s not something to avoid; it’s something to chase.
Which teacher had the biggest impact on you?
Mr. D’Alesio, my art teacher, was a real mentor to me, and not just in art but pretty much everything creative, including fashion. He was one of the first people who took my ideas seriously and pushed me to keep experimenting. He helped me build the confidence in my creative instincts. Also, Mr. Matte, my junior year calculus teacher. He completely changed the way I saw learning. His class made me realize that understanding something deeply is a lot more valuable than getting to the right answer. He made math feel like discovery, and that carried over into how I approach challenges in life in general.
Words to live by?
Start before you’re ready.