By LISA CAPOBIANCO
STAFF WRITER
For Kaleah Smith and Alexela Hoyt, some of their best high school memories were made just by getting involved.
Kaleah, who has been named valedictorian of Bristol Eastern High School’s Class of 2016, said some of her best memories happened as a member of the Leo Club—a program that consists of an international network of over 6,500 clubs in more than 140 countries and gives youth an opportunity to serve the community and make a positive impact.
Between planning Halloween parties for kindergarten students and taking part in volunteer opportunities through the Bristol Lion’s Club, the Leo Club has given back to people from all walks of life in the community.
“It’s a really rewarding experience,” said Kaleah, who joined the club during her sophomore year.
Kaleah recalled how it felt participating in Relay for Life last year with the Leo Club for the first time.
“It’s just very inspiring to be a part of that,” said Kaleah, who plans to participate in this year’s Relay for Life.
Alexela, who has been named salutatorian of Bristol Eastern’s Class of 2016, said some of her best memories happened while joining choir. Through choir, Alexela made a new group of friends with whom she has shared many good times with, especially during their trip to Disney World last year.
During her freshman year, Alexela transferred to Bristol Eastern from a magnet school. Once she came to Bristol Eastern, Alexela said she was able to challenge herself more academically. Alexela also met one of her best friends during her second year at Bristol Eastern.
“She taught me to come out of my shell,” said Alexela. “I was very shy when I first started here, but this year I find myself being much more open to new experiences.”
After high school, Alexela plans to study neurology at the University of Connecticut. Although uncertain about which direction she wants to take with neurology, Alexela said the subject was interesting to her, especially after taking an anatomy and physiology class.
“I studied anatomy and physiology, and when we got to the brain unit I found that I really enjoyed it,” said Alexela, who also enjoyed taking AP Biology in high school. “After that I…did some research on my own and decided that this is what I wanted to study.”
The youngest of six children who also attended Bristol Eastern, Kaleah will attend the University of Pittsburgh. Although her major is undecided right now, she is thinking about pursuing a degree in finance or accounting.
Kaleah said her teachers at Bristol Eastern have helped her in many ways, especially when choosing the right classes.
“The teachers really do their best to get involved with the student,” said Kaleah, adding how proud she feels to leave her family’s legacy at Bristol Eastern. “They are always there as support.”
Kaleah Smith, left, and Alexela Hoyt are graduating at the top of their class at Bristol Eastern High School.