Mary Grace Rorke has taken the concept of focusing on what’s important in life to new heights. The teenager works very hard and she’s not afraid of trying something new. Always ready for an adventure, the Huntington High School senior is headed to Duke University, where she plans to pursue a degree in civil engineering.
A sweet young women with a kind heart, Ms. Rorke always has an eye out for an opportunity to help others. She strives to make a positive difference in the world and to lend a hand to anyone who needs it. The senior knows what’s important in life.
“I chose Duke University because of incredible research opportunities, beautiful campus, rigorous academics and strong school spirit,” Ms. Rorke said. “I plan on majoring in civil engineering at the Pratt School of Engineering. In the future, I hope to design and build water systems, where I can help people get access to clean water.”
One of the top members of Huntington’s Class of 2022, Ms. Rorke has been recognized as a Distinguished Senior after excelling academically during every semester of high school.
“With its many advanced placement courses, as well as the incredible teachers, Huntington has prepared me well for the rigorous classes I intend on taking in college,” Ms. Rorke said. “The diverse cultural landscape has given me the privilege of meeting some incredible people from various backgrounds and has provided me with so many new and fresh perspectives. I’m so grateful to have had such a rich experience of positivity that has truly enhanced how I perceive the world.”
Ms. Rorke is very busy; so busy that few people understand how she manages to juggle so many activities simultaneously while still earning near perfect grades in very challenging courses. She has taken the concept of time management to new heights and the skill will surely pay even greater dividends at Duke.
“I plan on auditioning for the ‘Devils en Pointe,’ which is Duke’s ballet company, where I can continue my classical ballet training and have the opportunity to perform with other dancers,” Ms. Rorke said. “I also intend to join Duke’s symphony orchestra and possibly play in smaller ensembles as well. In addition, I would like to join the Duke Engineers for International Development, which partners with underserved communities on sustainable projects to improve the standard of living for numerous individuals around the world.”
President of the French Honor Society, treasurer of the English Honor Society and a member of several other academic honor societies, Ms. Rorke is also vice president of the high school orchestra, which she plays harp. The teenager’s club involvement includes Grandfriends, AWOD (A World of Difference) and The Dispatch student newspaper.
“Huntington UFSD’s crown jewel is definitely the teachers and the administration,” Ms. Rorke said. “They are always there to help and are incredibly supportive of each and every student. I am so grateful to have had such amazing teachers throughout my years in the district.”
An active member of the Junior, Junior Welfare League of Huntington, Ms. Rorke has been interning with the Huntington Foundation for Excellence in Education.
A skilled ballerina, Ms. Rorke has attended multiple five week summer ballet intensive programs with American Ballet Theater, Boston Ballet and Carolina Ballet, all of which gave the teenager the opportunity to continue her training while also meeting other dancers from around the world.
“I have enjoyed my experience at Huntington immensely and there is nowhere else I would rather attend high school,” Ms. Rorke said. “The people here are so incredible and Huntington truly offers amazing resources and opportunities for a multitude of interests.”
