Meet Yorktown Salutatorian Elbert Heng

Yorktown senior Elbert Heng, 18, is one of the school's top students. He has a long list of accomplishments. He is one of only 100 students to be accepted to Brown University's Program in Liberal Medical Education. 

He also plays the cello and was the principal in the school's orchestra. He has played at the All-State Orchestra, and performed at Carnegie Hall twice during his high school career. Elbert has also participated in the Science Research Program and reached national level at the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium. One of his many accomplishments include that he was a research assistant for Columbia University, where he flew in with the surgical team and watched them perform a heart transplant. The surgery went well, he said, during which he was holding and handing out different things when asked by the doctors. 

Elbert also played third singles on the varsity tennis team. He is the recipient of the National Merit Scholarship. Elbert applied early decision to Brown University and when he was accepted to it, he withdrew his applications to the other colleges he applied. He did not want to take away the spot from someone who really wanted to go to that school, he said. 

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

It feels good. It feels like it's not a sense of I'm better than everybody else. As a salutatorian, I get to be the first to speak and congratulate the class at graduation. I get to recognize them on everything they've done.

What did you have to go through to accomplish that task?

A lot of studying and not a lot of sleep. It was fun times. 

What was the most challenging and most awarding part?

The most challenging part was staying awake. The most rewarding part is [at graduation] when I get to congratulate everybody.

Are there any teachers that especially influenced you?

Mr. Blueglass, Science teacher; Mr. Laber, Calculus teacher; Mrs. Torrente, Orchestra; Mr. Reid, Chemistry teacher. 

How do you balance school and a social life with everything else you're involved in?

It's a common saying that you get to choose between three things- social life, schoolwork, and sleep. I chose to opt out of the last one. 

What do you like about Yorktown?

The people here are nice and I have a lot of friends who are supportive of my endeavors no matter how ridiculous they may be. 

What's one thing you'd change?

I really wish they had those $1 french fries. They were really good in the cafeteria, then we had the health reform. I really miss those. Also, I want air conditioning on the second floor. 

Share a funny or embarrassing story about your high school experience?

After prom I was really tired and I went outside to see the sunrise and I didn't see the screen door, but it definitely woke me up. 

How did you change during your years at Yorktown?

I grew taller and I hope smarter. 

What message do you hope to send through your speech at graduation?

From children we were told to say no to a lot of things and my message is while you should remember to say no those things, you should be open to new experiences and new people, and that's what is going to make your life fulfilling.

What do you want to do at Brown University?

Emma Watson is coming to Brown University and I want to become friends with her, but I don't want to be a creep. 

Where will you be in ten years?

I hope in the residency of my choice. 

Most played song or band on your iPod?

Lady Gaga.

Favorite snack for late night studying?

Whatever is in the fridge.

Favorite book?

Catch 22

Comfort item you'll bring from home to college?

Tempur-Pedic pillow.