Caroline O’Rourke has been discerning her interests for many years, so the Huntington High School senior is completely confident that her college choice of the University of Scranton is the right one for her. She has sketched out academic and career plans that are exciting.
“The University of Scranton has proven to be the one college I truly see myself flourishing in as a student,” Ms. O’Rourke said. “The wonderful campus and outstanding academics have truly drawn me to the school and even more towards the doctorate of physical therapy program. I am even more thankful and proud to be rewarded a guaranteed seat in the doctorate of physical therapy program. This has truly been a dream come true. Only about 45 students out of 800 applicants were awarded this spot and I am extremely thankful and excited to be one of them. This was an opportunity I could not pass up on.”
The teenager is sure of her path forward. “I have always wanted to pursue a career in physical therapy and the University of Scranton has a wonderful program that will allow me to pursue undergraduate and doctoral studies over six consecutive years. I will be majoring in kinesiology with a minor in nutrition.”
Ms. O’Rourke plans to join Scranton’s kinesiology and running clubs. “I am also very interested in joining the Leahy Community Health and Family Center organization,” she said.
The senior has starred on the Blue Devil soccer, winter and spring track teams, but a pre-season soccer injury has sidelined her from all sports this year.
“Unfortunately an injury has been an obstacle in my athletics this year, but I still work very closely with the girls’ track team as a team manager,” Ms. O’Rourke said. “I had the wonderful opportunity through Virtual Enterprise to be the CEO of my own virtual company. Our company was qualified for the national business plan competition, placing in the Top 10 on Long Island and Top 40 nationwide.”
The teenager has tutored several students in physics through the Science Honor society. She’s also volunteered at a local physical therapy office. “This has been, hands down, one of the most intriguing and interesting activities of mine,” Ms. O’Rourke said. “I have truly been able to delve into my fascination and love for a career in physical therapy.”
The senior has excelled in her studies. Ms. O’Rourke has taken many very challenging courses and she has done well across all academic disciplines.
“I personally think that Huntington’s crown jewel is our library,” Ms. O’Rourke said. “It just recently occurred to me how much help and sanctuary I have found in this library. Whether it be to cram in extra studying, getting some school work done or simply relaxing and reading, the library has been my greatest resource and I highly suggest all Huntington High School seniors utilize it. Our wonderful librarians have always been so kind and considerate to our students.”
The senior has branched out and visited a variety of places both near and far. “The majority of my traveling has been confined to within the states, despite a weeklong trip to Montreal and Quebec in Canada, which was breathtaking,” Ms. Rourke said. “Following my AP exams this year, I will be traveling to Paris, France for my 18th birthday and I am beyond excited to say the least. Thus far, my favorite place in the world is in Mystic, Connecticut where my grandmother lives.”
Ms. O’Rourke is an essential part of life at Huntington High School. She has a wide circle of friends and she is well-liked and respected by both classmates and faculty members.
“Family is what makes Huntington, Huntington,” Ms. O’Rourke said. “Seeing that Blue Devil on a tee shirt or hoodie means family and friends. Huntington is a community of students, athletes, teachers and parents where everyone is welcome and accepted. Wherever you turn there is someone you can turn to for help or even just friendly company.”
It’s clear that while Ms. O’Rourke is excited to be heading to Scranton for the next six years, her heart will remain in her hometown.
“My family has been in the Huntington School District since before I can remember and it has been so vital to making me who I am,” Ms. O’Rourke said. “I have been able to flourish as a student, athlete and as a part of this community. The bonds I have formed with my peers and faculty will remain with me beyond graduation. The opportunities provided to me by Huntington UFSD are unequivocal compared to anywhere else. I wouldn’t give my time up in Huntington School District for anything and I am beyond thankful to have been a Blue Devil for the past 13 years.”