Charles Michaelian Chooses Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Staying focused and disciplined and consistently challenging himself has landed Huntington High School senior Charles Michaelian a seat in Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s incoming freshman class next fall. The teenager intends to study aerospace engineering.

One of Huntington Class of 2025’s top students academically, Mr. Michaelian’s record speaks for itself. But his high school experience has featured much more than earning exceptional grades across every subject offered.

“I committed to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for its top ranked engineering school, challenging but rewarding coursework, its reputation in the aerospace industry, hockey culture, and state of the art music performance program,” Mr. Michaelian said. “I’m really excited to take part in all RPI offers to its students.”

The Huntington senior has been recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor and he’s routinely qualified for the high school’s High Honor Roll, marking period after marking period.

“At RPI I will be majoring in aerospace engineering,” Mr. Michaelian said. “With this degree, I plan to use my learned knowledge to design aircraft, rockets, and help solve problems involving air or space travel.”

Mr. Michaelian has garnered top scores on the National Latin Exam in multiple years and studying the language has helped him excel in other disciplines, too.

“My experience in Huntington has been filled with numerous enriching and exciting activities,” Mr. Michaelian said. “The highlight of my activities has been being a part of the Huntington Blue Devil marching band. Since joining in the spring of eighth grade up until now, being in marching band has taught me important values of work ethic, time management, teamwork, and an emphasis on attention to detail. For my junior and senior years, I was selected to be a clarinet section leader. Undertaking this role taught me to assist other members and collaborate for a common goal, and it brought me closer to my music community. I am inspired by marching band director Mr. [Andre] Rizzuto and his passion for music and marching band, and his role in motivating band members to achieve their best.”

Mr. Michaelian has also performed with the high school’s wind ensemble and jazz ensemble. “I am honored to have been selected in eleventh and twelfth grades by orchestra teacher Mr. [James] DiMeglio to play with the orchestra during a portion of their concerts,” the senior said. “Throughout my music experience I also thank Dr. [Jason] Giachetti for sharing his insights and expertise in music. With his support, I have noticed my growth as a musician.”

The senior is always up for an academic challenge. You can accurately say he thrives on it.

“I have enjoyed the academic challenge and successes from my time at Huntington High School,” Mr. Michaelian said. He’s a member of Latin Honor Society, Tri-M Honor Society and the National Honor Society. By excelling academically, he was awarded the Rensselaer leadership scholarship.

Participating in the National Latin Exam initiative has not only resulted in top scores but has allowed Mr. Michaelian to explore his interest in classical Roman history and literature. “Through studying Latin since seventh grade, Mrs. [Kristin] Fortunato has guided me in learning about the Latin language and its continued relevance in the modern day,” he said.

Mr. Michaelian was recognized this spring as a Distinguished Senior along with fellow Class of 2025 scholars. He enjoys learning new things every day.

“One of the reasons why I am pursuing aerospace engineering at RPI is my love for learning about physics,” Mr. Michaelian said. “This interest was solidified through taking physics courses with Mr. [Matt] Liguori. In conjunction with that, a strong background in math is required to succeed in engineering, and my AP Calculus teacher Mr. [Keith] Mattis provided me with the skills and foundations I need to be successful.”

There’s little doubt that Mr. Michaelian will miss Huntington High School and his friends, but he’s excited to be starting a new chapter in his life at RPI. He will depart with many fond memories.

“From my first day at Flower Hill to my last day at Huntington High School, I can confidently say that my growth and success can be attributed to my focus, quest for knowledge, and drive to challenge myself,” Mr. Michaelian said. “In order to do this, I thank my supportive teachers, peers, parents, and the wider Huntington community. I am incredibly grateful for everything Huntington offered to me and the memories and friendships I have made throughout this time.”