Syosset Congratulates Valedictorian, Salutatorian

Syosset High School announced the class of 2013's valedictorian and salutatorian.

Valedictorian Roger Witkin and salutatorian Seung Wan "Steven" Yoon combined commitment to academics and dedication to their community, helping them soar to the top of their class.

A science lover, Witkin took Honors Chemistry on top of AP World History as part of his course load. He has been an active member of the Ken Literary Magazine throughout high school and named webmaster his junior year. He also participated in Model Congress and Junior Statesmen of America..

Outside of school, Witkin volunteered at a senior living center in Plainview on weekends, saying it was important for young people to spend time with seniors. Witkin also plays piano and writes music in his free time.

Witkin says he will pursue chemistry or computer science in college and plans to go on to a science-related career.

Yoon has taken many college-level courses at the high school on top of research projects, whose topics include the relationship between economic and political freedom, international business management, and the management of technology companies. Yoon was awarded internships at IvySage Education and Allstate. While at the high school, Yoon has served as vice president of the mathletes, vice president of written events of DECA business club, and member of forensics speech and debate team, marching band, and football team.

Passionate about community service, Yoon has worked with Project Milo, World Vision, Goodwill, Red Cross, and Habitat for Humanity. He has volunteered as an English teacher for students in underprivileged regions of Korea, coordinated summer school programs in Mexico through his church, and is working on an English curriculum for schools in Cochabamba, Bolivia.

In college, Yoon plans to major in biological/chemical engineering while possibly minoring in economics or literature. He hopes to become an engineer to combat global issues and wants to write a book on philosophy or apologetics, eventually transitioning into full-time philanthropy or missionary work.