Michaela Dopico Discovers Her Niche in Performing Arts

Michaela Dopico loves the performing arts. The Huntington High School junior enjoys them so much she is considering a career in either music education or on the stage or screen. She’s well on her way to making her dreams come true.

The teenager is a wonderful young woman who loves life. Ms. Dopico is enrolled in Advanced Placement Biology, AP United States History and AP English Language among others.

The junior’s plans for the year include performing with the high school band and wind ensemble, singing a capella and with the chamber choir, participating in popular events like Acoustic Night, Cabaret Night and K-Factor and being in the cast of the drama club’s fall and spring productions.

“I am really looking forward to the opportunities I will have to perform this year,” Ms. Dopico said. “Music and drama both play very important roles in my life. This year, I am especially excited to participate in the play and the musical with Mr. [Michael] Schwendemann, the drama club advisor. “The people in the drama club are the best and it’s fun being able to work with them.”

The teenager also looks forward to working with music teacher Victoria Garbarino, who directs the chamber choir. “She always puts the group out there by submitting audition tapes,” Ms. Dopico said. “Last year she brought us to Radio City Music Hall, and this year we plan on performing at Carnegie Hall.”

Ms. Dopico is excited to be engaged in an independent study of music theory with high school teacher Dr. [Jason] Giachetti. “This will prepare me for AP Music Theory next year,” she said.

Ms. Dopico spent last summer spending a lot of time with her family. “We enjoyed all that a Long Island summer has to offer,” she said. “I also continued studying my music and preparing for college.”

As she goes about pursuing her interests, Ms. Dopico has embraced the life of a high school junior. She has a full schedule of classes and after school activities.

“I have really enjoyed my time in Huntington High School so far,” Ms. Dopico said. “It has been amazing! I cannot believe that I am already in my junior year. I have had many great teachers and I have made many great friends that I know will be lasting relationships. My work in band, chamber choir and the drama club has allowed me to meet many talented people. We all support one another both on and off the stage.”

The teenager is confident she has found her niche in life. “I am thinking of pursuing music education or performance as a major in college,” Ms. Dopico said. “I have just begun my research into schools and I’m making a list of colleges that I would like to visit. Music has been a constant in my life. It has allowed me to grow as a person and has brought me out of my shell.  In the future, I would like to help others  realize the positive influence music can have on their life as well.”