Vikash Patel is currently a senior at JFK Memorial High School. He hopes to become a commercial airline pilot in the future and currently volunteers for Travelers Aid at the Newark Liberty International Airport, and he’s even flown a plane before. I spoke with Vikash to ask about his experience in high school, as well as his feelings about leaving the school and what the future has in store for him. Vikash shared his thoughts and even gave a little bit of advice to the current freshman. 

Who were some of your favorite teachers in this school and why?

Vikash: Mrs. Culver of course is the best. She loves to teach and meets each of her students needs, she takes the time with each and every one of her students to make them into their future selves. Ms. Finis is definitely the coolest teacher because she motivates and inspires young engineers. Plus, what other teacher has worked for a well renowned aerospace company? And let’s also not forget about Mrs. Ebner, Mrs. Prusicki, Mrs. Pardo, Ms.Foster, and Mrs. Acuna-Francisco, who are also all so passionate about shaping us kids to make the world a better place. All these teachers go above and beyond and do more than what was asked of them. They are my friends, my mothers, my educators, and the best role models that I could ever ask for. I’m happy that they are part of my high school experience and I will remember them all for the rest of my life.

What do you want to do after high school?

After high school, I want to go to college and study Aeronautical Science with Flight. I’m actually in the middle of my admissions process right now and have already got into some of the best aviation schools in the country! After graduating, my dream is to become a commercial airline pilot.

In which ways did COVID impact your high school experience? Would you want to re-do those years that you missed out on?

It’s crazy how this is the new normal for us. Never would I have imagined we would be in a real deadly global pandemic. I wish I could have some of my classes in-person, like Engineering for example. Doing school online has made it feel like I skipped through half of high school. I left JFK as a sophomore due to the pandemic, and now I’m already a senior. At the rate it’s going, I’m lucky if I get a prom. This reminds me of how when I was a freshie I heard seniors talking about how high school just flies by, and now I understand what they meant.

How do you feel about leaving high school and starting a new chapter in your life?

It’s going to be terrible when I graduate and have to leave my friends behind for college. However, I can’t wait to start this next chapter in my adult life. This is going to be the first time I’ll be living on my own and most likely the first time I’ll be in another state alone and taking care of myself. I’ll have to balance my social life and my school life. Not to mention half of my college classes involve me flying a plane.

How have you changed since you first stepped foot into the school as a freshman?

I definitely have become more responsible and have become more determined to pursue my passion of becoming a commercial airline pilot.

If you could use three words to describe your entire high school experience, what would they be?

Memorable, Motivating, Life-changing.

Any words of advice for the freshmen?

Don’t listen to other student’s advice. High school is not like the movies and not everybody here is evil. It is very welcoming and other students and teachers are always eager to help you out. You’ll make a lot of new friends, try new things, and pick up new hobbies and interests. You are the one in control and you are the one who decides your high school experience. This is an important step in your life and everything you do here matters. This will determine your future. Just remember to do your best and do what makes you happy.