Luke Berard is a senior at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School. While he has made a lot of memories here, it’s time for him to say goodbye. Luke has spent all four years of high school wondering what his next steps in life will be. Little did he know he would be attending TCNJ in the fall of 2025 where he would be majoring in history.
Whether it’s a museum or an ancient artifact, Luke’s always had a love and passion for learning about the past. Luke is a perfect example of what happens when you always put in the effort and care about school.
How has your high school experience been?
Luke: I say overall, it’s been pretty average. I mean, I didn’t necessarily participate in as many activities, and I probably should’ve, but overall, I made a lot of friends, I made a lot of good memories, and overall, I think I had a very good time.
What is one piece of advice that you would give to incoming freshmen about high school?
… probably just to participate more. I didn’t really do much of anything in my entire high school career. I feel its better for people to expand their horizon and try activities they may haven’t participated in before, or maybe activities they have already participated in.
Who was your favorite teacher at JFK?
I don’t know if I can answer that, kind of putting me in a position, I’d say Mrs. Prusicki.
What are your future plans?
I plan on going to TCNJ to study history, and I want to work in a museum, in some capacity, either if it’s some sort of curatorial role or an archival role. I want to work with history, so not like a typical teacher; I don’t want to be a history teacher, but an educator of history.
What is the reason for your major?
I’ve always had a love for history, it’s been a passion of mine. I have always loved going to historical sites and museums. I love collecting artifacts, and watching documentaries, videos, just any way to kind of engross myself in history.
Are there any things you wish you could have changed from the time you’ve been at JFK?
Again, I’ll go back to just participating more. Like, I never really went to any school functions. I didn’t participate in events, I didn’t join any clubs, and I do kind of regret that now that school is kind of over.
