Nicholas Haupt is staying close to home, but he is still headed to one of the best colleges in the country. The Huntington High School senior plans to attend Stony Brook University and study in some of its most highly regarded departments.
Honored earlier this spring as a Distinguished Senior after compiling a superb academic record, Mr. Haupt considered Fordham University and New York University before committing to Stony Brook.
Huntington senior Nicholas Haupt
“Stony Brook has a great STEM department, along with very helpful staff and continuous research in many fields,” Mr. Haupt said. “I plan to double major in physics and economics.”
The teenager said one of the keys to his success has been short study periods throughout the day, rather than cramming at the last minute. He has pursued challenging studies, including a full range of Advanced Placement courses.
“I have no idea what I want to do with my life,” Mr. Haupt said. “Maybe go into research or education, but that’ll most likely change by tomorrow.”
The senior has served as president of Huntington High School’s Key Club chapter this year and helped the organization reach new heights, especially with its blood drives.
Mr. Haupt has been winning academic honors for many years. He’s been inducted into numerous honor societies and has even found time to perform with the high school band’s jazz ensemble.
The senior remembers many humorous episodes over the years. He likes to laugh and have a good time, but his serious side has led to an exemplary academic record.
“My all-time favorite teacher is Mr. [James] Graber,” said Mr. Haupt about the longtime social studies faculty member. “His class was always a mix of laughs, knowledge and arguing over the logic of ‘21 jokes.’ Mr. Graber pushed the whole class to truly think for themselves.”
Mr. Haupt said he plans to join Stony Brook University’s chess club. He will surely find plenty of other interests outside of the classroom to pursue on the college’s campus.
As his long run through Huntington UFSD nears its conclusion, Mr. Haupt has plenty to look back on with pride and satisfaction since his first day of kindergarten at Washington Primary School. He’s determined to blaze that same trail of success at Stony Brook.