A Chat With Panas H.S. Valedictorian Megan Gansfuss

Walter Panas senior Megan Gansfuss, 18, is one of her school's top students. She has a long list of accomplishments, including the Discover Scholarship Tribute Award, which she received her junior year. The award is given to a student who has shown community leadership and has overcome an obstacle. When asked about her obstacle, Megan said she was born with one hand. But that does not stop her from doing the things she loves. She said she has a prosthetic hand she only uses to hold the bow when she plays her violin. 

Megan has been a part of Panas Players since her sophomore year and she was one of three students who choreographed the musical Godspell. She has been dancing ballet since she was 3 years old and currently works at Dance for Joy in Mohegan Lake as a receptionist at the dance school. Megan also tutors a 9th grade student in any school subject. 

In her freshman year, Megan applied to and was accepted to Horizon, a pure leadership program where students do presentations in front of faculty, high school and middle school students from the district to get rid of stereotypes. She is also a National Merit Commanded Student. 

Megan was accepted in all seven schools she applied to, and chose to go to Loyola University in Maryland where she will study Mathematics. She loves baseball and especially the New York Yankees fan and wants to become a sport actuary. 

Yorktown Patch: How does it feel to be at the top of your class?

Megan: Being at the top of my class doesn't make me as though I'm better than anyone else. I have worked hard over the years for myself, not to earn recognition from others.

What did you have to go through to accomplish that task?
I have had to work hard, study, pull a few all-nighters, and keep giving my all even when it seemed almost impossible. 

What was the most challenging and most awarding part?
The biggest challenge was finding time to keep up with all my work while also being involved in so many other activities. The most rewarding part was being accepted into colleges and receiving scholarships.

What's your favorite subject and why?
My favorite subject is math. I love the challenge of solving a difficult problem, plus the fact that there is always an absolute answer- math is rarely subjective. 

Are there any teachers that especially influenced you?
Mr. Mellor, my AP US and AP Human Geography teacher, has had the greatest influence on me. He's taught me to deal with less then perfection, and has frequently pushed me academically further than I believed I could go.

How do you balance school and a social life with everything else you're involved in?
I often sacrifice sleep, drink a lot of coffee, and have had many dinners on the go. I've also been forced to manage my time, and get work done ahead of time when I know I have an especially busy week ahead.

Out of your many activities, which were your favorite and why?
Ballet is my favorite activity. Although it is often hard work, it also allows me to express myself. In addition, dancing to me is like therapy. It is my time, and allows me to relax and enjoy myself regardless of whatever happened during the day.

What do you like about Panas?
I like the fact that Panas is very diverse and the students have a wide variety of interests. 

How did you change during your years at Panas?
Throughout my years at Panas, I have learned to relax more and take minor setbacks in stride, as well as advocate for myself and become a leader. 

What message do you hope to send through your speech at graduation?
I hope to send the message that we should not label each other, as we are all far more than we are often precieved to be. As we leave Panas, it is also time for us to finally break free and live our lives as the individuals that we are.

What do you want to do at Loyola University?
I am planning on majoring in Mathematics, and hope to join both the Dance Club as well as the Ultimate Frisbee team. 

Where will you be in ten years?
Who has a crystal ball? 

Here are five quick questions you don't have to think about. Ready?

Most played song or band on your iPod?
Black Eyed Peas.

Favorite snack for late night studying?
Coffee.

Favorite book?
The Princess Bride.

Comfort item you'll bring from home to college?
My credit card.