Robert Jean-Gilles has a way of commanding a stage. A gifted performer, the Huntington High School senior always seems to rise to the occasion and bring a crowd to its feet. The teenager is a splendid student, too. Soon he will have an opportunity to shine in a much larger arena at New York University in Manhattan.
Mr. Jean-Gilles is a thoughtful, articulate and very hardworking young man. He spent last summer studying on Brown University’s campus in Providence, Rhode Island. He’s always striving to improve himself in one way or another.
Huntington senior Robert Jean-Gilles is headed to NYU in the fall
“I chose to commit to NYU because of its strong fine arts program,” Mr. Jean-Gilles said. “In addition, I’ll be surrounded by everything I love in New York City. At NYU my major will be drama and I plan on minoring in Africana Studies. My career interests involve acting.”
One of the most highly regarded members of Huntington’s Class of 2020, Mr. Jean-Gilles has held numerous positions of leadership and importance. He’s trusted and respected by his classmates and teachers. If anyone deserves to be called a star, the teenager’s friends say it's him.
“Huntington School District has done a fantastic job in preparing me for college because of its strong love for the arts,” Mr. Jean-Gilles said. “While I am aware of the challenges that come with going to college, I am beyond excited to tackle this chapter.”
The teenager said he found courses in science research, Advanced Placement World History, AP US History, band and chamber choir to be especially valuable. “These classes have truly helped shape who I am today,” Mr. Jean-Gilles said.
The senior’s favorite high school activities have been drama club, marching band and the science research program. “I’ve learned leadership, teamwork and loyalty while being a part of these amazing groups,” Mr. Jean-Gilles said.
The teenager’s advice to incoming Huntington High School freshmen? “Go for it,” Mr. Jean-Gilles said. “To quote Malcolm X, ‘Stumbling is not falling.’ Mistakes will be made because we are human, but it allows for growth. But most importantly, always be true to yourself.”
Mr. Jean-Gilles said he’s benefitted from the guidance of several mentors over the past four years, including teachers Michael Schwendemann, Brian Stellato, Kenneth Donovan, Lauren Desiderio, Victoria Garbarino, Jason Giachetti, Robert Gilmor and Lori Kenny.
“While at Huntington High School, I’ve had some great memories,” Mr. Jean-Gilles said. “I love the fact that the arts are well respected and promoted in the district. There really is something for everyone. I will miss all the teachers that have made an impact on me as well as friends in the younger grades. I plan on coming back to attend many of the awesome events hosted by Huntington High School.”
