Bianca Lella displays a work ethic that few can match. The Huntington High School senior is always striving to be the best version of herself, working hard in school and holding down two part time jobs. She has excelled in every class and is well positioned to move on to the University of Scranton where she has landed a scholarship to study business.
“I chose the University of Scranton because it felt right,” Ms. Lella said. “At the beginning of my college search, a small religiously-affiliated school was the complete opposite of what I was looking for. But as I toured other schools and did more research, nothing compared to Scranton. I was drawn to the intimate learning experience and the immense school spirit. I’ll be studying business and participating in their accelerated MBA program. This program allows me to receive my masters in four years instead of the standard five. I did receive a scholarship that will be covering over half the costs of the university.”
Huntington High School senior Bianca Lella is headed to the University of Scranton
The teenager is regarded by her classmates as a “sweet young woman.” Ms. Lella is very highly regarded around the high school by everyone. She always has a kind word for those who need it and she defines the word dependable.
“Huntington has prepared me for college by supporting me in ways I didn’t know a school could support you,” Ms. Lella said. “All of my teachers are amazing and so supportive, even in times like these. They have all provided me with skills and confidence that will definitely be useful in my upcoming years. I feel ready for the academic challenge of college. But I’m not sure if I'm ready to say goodbye to Huntington just yet.”
The senior has especially excelled in the high school’s Virtual Enterprise business class. The course features students developing and operating a simulated business within a corporate structure to prepare them for the real life business world.
“Virtual Enterprise has 100 percent been one of the most valuable and interesting courses I’ve taken at Huntington High School,” Ms. Lella said. “In this class, I discovered my passion for business and the class taught me soft skills that will help me in the business world in the future. Plus it’s been fun to build our company, go to tradeshows and plan events.”
Ms. Lella is a real “people person.” She has a magnetic personality and likes to help others if she can. She sets high standards for herself and is willing to work hard to accomplish every goal.
The senior’s favorite activity during high school has been traveling to New Orleans with Huntington’s Habitat for Humanity club chapter. “I made connections that will last a lifetime and it was such a humbling experience,” Ms. Lella said. “It was so much fun to experience Mardi Gras, eat good food and help people who were in need. I plan on continuing community service acts like this in the future.”
It’s really not surprising that Ms. Lella is taking on a significant academic challenge at Scranton, namely obtaining undergraduate and graduate degrees over a four year span. Such a feat takes remarkable commitment.
“Some guidance I would give to the incoming freshmen is to find something you love and stick with it,” Ms. Lella said. “Like a sport or a club you’re really invested in. Colleges love to see students who are dedicated and involved at school. I would also say to always try your hardest. Even though it doesn’t seem like it now, studying hard and paying attention in class will really pay off in the future. But also have fun. You’re only in high school once. Make it count.”
The teenager is a strong young woman and she has the organizational and time management skills of a business executive. How she balances everything while maintaining excellence across the board is a mystery and a testament to just how special Ms. Lella is. She’s a talented artist and photographer, too.
“This past year I relied heavily on Mrs. [Paige] Furman for advice and support,” Ms. Lella said. “Choosing a college was nothing close to easy for me and whenever I needed anything Mrs. Furman was there for me. Not only has she been a phenomenal teacher, but she has guided me through this process every step of the way. I will forever be thankful for her support. Another mentor I’ve had is Mrs. [Stacey] Byrnes. She is the absolute sweetest person on this planet. Whatever I need help with she’s there 24/7. She spends so much time focusing on her students and creating a safe space for us.”
Ms. Lella’s friendships are rock solid. “Bianca is one of the kindest people I know,” said close friend Marissa Cribar, a fellow senior. “We spend more time together than apart and she is never not down to do something fun or just sit in her car and talk for a few hours. She never fails to pick up the mood and make life feel like a party. She is probably one of the strongest people I know. Once she sets her mind to something, there is no stopping her. I cannot wait to see her achieve all of these amazing things I know she will do throughout college. Love you B.”
The teenager has used her time at Huntington High School wisely, wasting not a single day and looking at every experience as an opportunity to learn and grow.
“I couldn’t imagine going to high school anywhere else,” Ms. Lella said. “My experience at Huntington has been beyond amazing. I’ve been given so many opportunities and met so many outstanding people. I have no doubt that the friendships I’ve made at Huntington will last a lifetime. I’ll really miss all of my teachers and being able to see everyone every day. I’ll miss going out for lunch and walking the halls with my friends. I’ll always remember how welcomed I felt when I transferred to Huntington. The community here is so closely knit, it’s surreal.”
