Melany Quintero is the 2018-2019 valedictorian of McArthur High School. She will attend Dartmouth College next year and pursue a biomedical engineering degree with interests in gene coding, genetics, and gene therapy. After earning an undergraduate degree, she plans to go to medical school. Quintero has a 5.31 GPA and has earned many accolades during her high school years, including an Award of Excellence from the Congress of Future Medical Leaders.
Quintero is one of two high school students chosen to participate in this year’s Leadership Hollywood Program by the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. “Melany has been instrumental in keeping her group’s community service project on track,” said Robin Drulard, Community Projects Co-Chair for Leadership Hollywood. “She is a great asset to the class this year.”
Last year, Quintero also acted as McArthur High School’s student government vice president. She’s enjoy mathematics and is a part of the Best Buddies program. Her extracurricular activities include speech and debate, as well as numerous volunteer projects.
As a high school student, Quintero was even able accomplish feats on par with college seniors. She completed and published a research paper on mathematics code and music.
However, like many accomplished individuals, Quintero has faced challenges. She came to the United States from Cuba when she was only ten years old.
“At first it was hard, but I overcame difficulties and did well in school. Now I want to help others,” she said. “I enjoy doing volunteer work such as tutoring.”
McArthur Principal, Todd LaPace, said, “Melany has a great heart and she cares for others. She always goes above and beyond.”
