Ashley Genao is one of the most dynamic and talented members of Huntington High School’s Class of 2022. She is a bright, articulate and creative young woman who sparkles as a student, performing artist and athlete. The popular teenager has carved out an ambitious year ahead.
Ms. Genao gives 100 percent in everything she does. Her gentle and pleasant personality wins over everyone she comes across in short order. She exudes kindness as she makes her way around the high school’s hallways.
“Some of the courses that most interest me this year are Virtual Enterprise, Chamber Choir and Advanced Placement Seminar,” Ms. Genao said. “Some of the teachers I am looking forward to working with are Mrs. [Paige] Furman, Ms. [Victoria] Garbarino and Ms. [Alison] Capewell, but I am definitely looking forward to working will all of my teachers this year.”
Ms. Genao is fully invested in the high school’s athletic and club programs. She plays soccer and basketball for the Blue Devils, serves in the student government, volunteers with the Interact Club, sings with the a capella choir, shines with the mock trial team, participates in the Grandfriends Club and AWOD (A World of Difference anti-discrimination and pro-tolerance club) and is a contributing member of several academic honor societies. The teenager even finds the time to participate in Explorer Post 215 of the Huntington Community First Aid Squad.
A very well-liked young woman who is valued by her classmates and teammates, Ms. Genao’s closest friend is Edelyn Garcia.
She has also enjoyed close, mentoring relationships with teachers Victoria Garbarino and Lorena Hickey. “They have equally stood out the most to me throughout the years,” Ms. Genao said. “They both have always been two teachers I can count on in anything. They have made my Huntington experience one-of-kind because you cannot find people like them anywhere else. They have always kept me focused and driven. They saw the potential in me and have helped me become a better me and excel in anything I do, whether in their class or outside of their class. I will always be grateful for everything they have done and do for me here at Huntington High School.”
Ms. Genao’s advice to incoming freshmen? “Cherish each moment here at the high school, even the little ones because it all goes so fast and will be over in a blink of an eye,” she said. “I also think it’s important to be very involved in the high school. It will be a great advantage to you throughout the four years of high school. You will get to really enjoy the unique Huntington High School experience.”
The teenager is interested in many colleges, including New York University, Duke University, St. John’s University, Utica College, Florida International University and CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
“I want to study criminal justice and immigration law or criminal behavioral analysis,” Ms. Genao said. “I want to get my undergrad degree in psychology and pursue a career as either a lawyer or an FBI agent.”
Ms. Genao displays a quiet strength. She isn’t afraid to take risks and thoroughly enjoys a good challenge. She is constantly growing as a person and has developed into an exceptional young woman.
“My experience at Huntington has been one of a kind,” Ms. Genao said. “Huntington has given me so many opportunities that I will always be grateful for. Huntington has been a place that has allowed me to flourish and become the person I am today. Given the circumstances with the COVID-19 pandemic, I still believe my experience has been a great. I still have one more year here and I can’t wait see where my little time left in Huntington will bring me and what additional amazing memories I will make.”