Brooke Berger knew that to pursue her interests in the medical field, the right choice was to attend the Biomedical and Life Sciences career path at the DCL-Stem Academy. “I knew being part of the STEM program would be the best fit for me and prepare me for college.”

In school, Brooke is the captain of the girls’ varsity soccer team and a member of Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA). She is also a member of National Honor Society and World Language Honor Society. Brooke is committed to helping others. She started her own SAT prep program at the STEM Academy where she tutors and prepares underclassmen for the SATs. In her free time, she continues to keep busy tutoring others and playing club soccer and has for the past five years fostered kittens.

Upon graduation, Brooke plans to attend a top college where she will major in health and human biology. She aspires to go to medical school and become a doctor with hopes of working in the emergency room.

Speaking of her student of the month designation, “I feel very honored. I have been working hard in my four years and it feels nice to be noticed.” Brooke’s exceptional 4.52 GPA and dedication to helping others has not gone unnoticed!

Brooke shared advice for freshmen, “It’s important to remember that all your years count in high school. Make sure you stay on top of everything but don’t forget to have fun because it goes by really fast!”

Brooke, your hard work and determination will get you far! Congratulations!

Gianna Hortas’ choice to attend the PCTI School of Applied Engineering to study prototyping, machining, and design came easy to her, “I chose the program because it combines the theoretical side of engineering with the hands-on side. It gives you the opportunity to see the work come to life.”

Gianna is a member of National Honor Society, World Language Honor Society, Corresponding Secretary of Student Council Interact, and a member of LEAP. Out of the classroom she is the team captain for both the girls’ varsity tennis team and the bowling team. Gianna is currently part of the cooperative education program at Gasflo Products Inc, which has recently been named PCTVS Business Partner of the Year. In her free time, she enjoys reading, making jewelry and baking.

Recently, Gianna had the opportunity to have a key role in PCTI’s partnership with NASA HUNCH. Her shop is responsible for the creation of flight hardware and Gianna was one of three inspectors who were responsible for all the final inspections and documentation of the parts. She had a vital role in ensuring process control by monitoring the machining of these parts and completing in process inspection. The HUNCH mission is to empower and inspire students through a Project Based Learning program. The program allows students the opportunity to participate in the design and fabrication of real-world valued products for NASA. Upon graduation, Gianna plans to pursue a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering and hopes to obtain a master’s degree shortly after.

Speaking of her student of the month designation, “I was surprised, I didn’t expect it at all.” Gianna’s well-rounded academics, extracurriculars, and notable GPA of 4.31 make her very qualified for this distinguished honor.

Gianna was sure to remind freshmen, “take life one day at a time. Don’t get caught up in the things you can’t control.”

Congratulations Gianna! Your diligence, passion, and hard work will ensure much future success!

Gina Pelosi is a passionate student of PCTI’s Applied Engineering/Project Lead the Way. Her strong interest in doing hands-on work and interesting projects while learning useful skills led her to pursue this exciting career path.

In school, Gina keeps busy as a member of National Honor Society, Rho Kappa, World Language Honor Society, Girls State and TI@Ti. Gina is also an all-seasons student athlete as part of the soccer, basketball, flag football, and golf teams. Outside of her school activities, Gina plays club soccer and is a math tutor to other high schoolers. In the summer she works as a lifeguard.

Reflecting on her student of the month designation, “I was surprised but I’m happy to be acknowledged for my hard work.” Gina’s impressive 4.31 GPA along with her extracurricular activities both in and out of school, make her very deserving of this prestigious recognition! In the fall, she plans on attending college and looks forward to the opportunity to study abroad. In her future, Gina plans to pursue a career in either biomedical engineering or architecture.

Gina had some valuable advice for underclassmen, “It’s best to make yourself known. Don’t be shy, just be yourself.” Looking back on her hard work, Gina believes in a motto that drives her success, “When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, that is when you’ll be successful.”

Gina, your focus, passion, and hard work will ensure a successful future! Congratulations