In a new segment called “Three Questions”, we pick student leaders and influential people around Sachem and ask them three questions about their passion for the school district and some exciting things they’re working on.
First up, Shannon Christiano, a senior at Sachem East, who represents the senior class as Student Government President.
She’s pretty busy with a handful of volunteer initiatives as well, including her role as a New York State Certified Special Olympics Coach in basketball, a volunteer in the SYAG basketball program for students in Sachem with special needs and as a volunteer at Saint Francis Hospital in Roslyn.
In college, she plans on studying to achieve a bachelor of science in nursing degree and eventually furthering her education to become a nurse practitioner specializing in pediatrics.
And now for three questions …
1. What’s it like being Student Government president and how important of a role is that for you, your school and your graduating class?
“When I first decided to run for Student Government President I did not completely comprehend how much hard work and dedication the position would entail. However, when I realized the amazing officers and advisors that I had helping me I quickly realized that any challenge that arose we would be able to handle together. For me, filling this role in the school has enabled me to become a leader, and taught me how to handle every situation in a professional manor. I constantly am attending board meetings, holding general meetings, meeting with Mr. Antonetti to discuss new ideas, and also creating and running student events. A few of the larger events that I run, along with my other officers are homecoming, the food drive, showdown and March Madness. The amazing thing about all of these events is that it brings everyone in the school together. Helping to keep school spirit up, getting everyone in the school involved, and fundraising for various charities are our main jobs. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank my officers, Jordyn Weinhaus, Cara Trombetta, Jill Lamia, Kimi Abrahaul, Ilyssa Forman, and Alex Giombanco, as well as my two amazing advisors, Mr.Rivera and Mr.Gallo , and my past advisor, Mr.Kropp. Without them, all the success we’ve had so far this year would not have been possible.”
2. Best moment of your academic career thus far? Or is it yet to come?
“The best moment of my academic career I hope is yet to come. High school has been an amazing experience that has truly shaped me into the student that I am today, however, I feel that my best academic achievements will occur in college as I work towards a nursing degree.”
3. What does Sachem mean for you?
“Sachem to me is a place to be who you were meant to be. It is a place to grow as an individual, and explore various options of what could potentially be a part of your future. Without the teachers in Sachem, I would have never ran to become President, and I would have never learned everything I have about what it means to be a strong leader.”
-As told to Chris R. Vaccaro