Christina Nigro is headed to one of the most stunning and beautiful college campuses in the country. The Huntington High School senior plans to study at the University of Redlands in California.
“I applied to many schools and was unsure about the direction I wanted to take for college,” Ms. Nigro said. “Weather aside, ultimately the Johnston Center of Integrative Studies drew me to the University of Redlands. Within the Johnston Center I will have the ability to individualize my education and combine varied interests of global studies, nutrition and writing. I was drawn to the small tight knit community that Redlands has, as well as its options for study abroad and internship opportunities.”
Huntington High School senior Christina Nigro.
The teenager considered the University of Colorado, University of Hawaii at Manoa, McGill University and Occidental College before deciding to attend Redlands. “I was able to visit other schools, but Redlands was the only school I could truly picture myself at,” Ms. Nigro said. “I love how helpful the faculty seem and how welcoming it felt from my first moments on campus as I walked past the orange groves surrounding the entrance.”
Located in the historic city of Redlands, the University of Redlands is situated midway between Los Angeles and Palm Springs. Esri, a company that is the world leader in geographic information system (GIS) technology is based in Redlands.
“Centrally located near the beaches, mountains and desert in the heart of Southern California, the University of Redlands offers more than 50 undergraduate programs, as well as 20 graduate programs in business, communicative disorders, education, geographic information systems and music; blending liberal arts and professional programs, applied and theoretical study, traditional majors and self-designed curricula,” according to the college’s website.
A four year member of Huntington’s winter track and field team, Ms. Nigro also played three years of field hockey for the Blue Devils. She ran on the cross country team as a senior.
“Christina is one of the most deserving people I know,” senior Lianna DeChiaro said. “She’s kind and hard working. I know she will thrive in college and will achieve great things.”
Ms. Nigro has many friends, including a core group that supports each other without question. They will all be going their separate ways soon to attend college. But one gets the feeling these are friendships that will endure and stand the test of time.
“Christina is an inspiring and creative person that brings up the world around her,” senior Sara Frawley said. “She works hard at everything she does and has always been an amazing friend.”
Ms. Nigro’s senior year academic schedule includes Advanced Placement Government and Politics, AP Literature and Composition, AP Photography, Regents Physics, Pre-Calculus and Spanish 5 Honors.
“I am interested in pursuing a career abroad within a non-profit, as well as working as a journalist,” Ms. Nigro said. “I want to have the opportunity to share knowledge and explore the world doing something I love.”
The teenager has been inducted into four separate academic honor societies, including Huntington’s National Honor Society chapter along with the English, Spanish and Social Studies Honor Societies.
“During my time at Huntington I have enjoyed the many opportunities to try an experiment with different classes and electives,” Ms. Nigro said. “I enjoyed taking Personal Law, Asian Studies, Creative Writing and Photography throughout my four years.”
Ms. Nigro is a dynamic young woman. She started her own clothing line and has sold her shirts in stores across Long Island. The teenager has been adept at juggling school, sports, clubs, family, friends and a job. Named a Distinguished Senior after compiling an academic average of at least a 90 during every semester of high school, she has compiled an exceptional record.
Highlights of the past four years include a pair of privately funded and coordinated trips with EF Tours, including one to the Galapagos Islands and another to Eastern Europe.
“Overall, my experience at Huntington has been unforgettable,” Ms. Nigro said. “I love the diversity of Huntington and will never forget the small and monumental moments of my life that have occurred throughout my time in high school. I am ambitious for my future and thankful to Huntington for all it has given me over the years.”
