Mary Marinello Chooses Univ. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

As a long list of college acceptances arrived to many outstanding schools, one stood out for Mary Marinello. The Huntington High School senior has decided to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and pursue a pre-med track of studies.

“I chose Chapel Hill because of the amazing academic, research and extracurricular opportunities the school offers,” the teenager said this week. “The chemistry program is extremely developed with about 650 undergraduate majors, which allows for preparation for a variety of graduate schools. They also have an amazing undergraduate research program that I plan to participate in. Plus, the school is also part of the Research Triangle, which will provide me with an even broader exposure to research.”

Ms. Marinello said she is going into UNC on a pre-med track with the hope of pursuing either medical school or a physician assistant program after obtaining an undergraduate degree.

“I have always enjoyed science and as I got older, I decided to explore the medical field,” the senior said. “Over the years, I was able to have the opportunity to have an internship with a pediatric plastic surgeon where I was able to work with children who had cleft palates and craniofacial deformities, as well as volunteer at Huntington Hospital. After having these experiences, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine.”

The teenager has been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities at Huntington High School, including serving as president of both the Latin Honor Society and Social Studies Honor Society and vice president of the Science Honor Society as well as being a member of the National Honor Society, English Honor Society and Math Honor Society.

The key to her is motivation according to Ms. Marinello. She has consistently pushed herself even when confronted by feelings of wanting to give up. A Newsday Long Island Arts Alliance Scholar Artist, she has danced in a number of Lynch School of Ballet productions.

A member of the JUNIOR Junior Welfare League, Ms. Marinello has participated in numerous community service activities over the years.

“My experience at Huntington has been great and I have constantly felt supported by the close knit community around me,” Ms. Marinello said. “All of my teachers, especially Mrs. [Danielle] Raguzin, Mrs. [Patricia] Avelli and Mrs. [Kristin] Fortunato have always been there for me and have been extremely helpful and caring throughout my entire high school journey.”