"That it will never come again is what makes life so sweet.”
- Emily Dickinson

Jessica Gerkens

Salutatorian
GPA: 4.42
Attending Southern Connecticut University
Major: Biology

"My favorite thing about Jess is how sneaky smart and focused she is!"
- Amy Reilly, DHS Librarian

High school accomplishments

For the last four years, Jessica has taken 7 AP courses and have gained college credit for 2/3's of her exams! She is the current Student Council President and a former class representative and secretary for Student Council as well. She is also the vice president of the National Honors Society and parliamentarian for the Spanish Honors Society. She's been in diverse clubs from Best Buddies to Mock Trial and continues to participate in clubs like these. She was varsity captain of Derby High School's Girls Soccer during her junior and senior year. Jessica likes to play sports, hike, swim and overall be outdoors. She also enjoys making jewelry, clothing and paper crafts and is interested in earth science and geology.

"She presents as a student who cares about school but is also pretty aloof, but you know underneath that 'I'm just having fun' exterior there lies a truly driven and focused student. How else can we explain her phenomenal rank of #2???"
- Amy Reilly, DHS Librarian

The high school experience

Jessica expressed how she favors Derby High School for its unique community. She shows gratitude in being able to grow up in a family like Derby High School, especially with those who she has known since middle school, even as early as elementary school."DHS is unlike any other school. Contrary to the common portrayal of high school in the media, DHS has been a very welcoming community where I feel the students are very supportive of each other despite differences. I have always felt like the people at this school are like a family, especially since I’ve been fortunate to grow alongside the majority of my classmates since middle school and even elementary school."

"She is so friendly with everyone and she is easy to talk to!"
- Amy Reilly, DHS Librarian

Taking The next step

Jessica's hard work was very evident looking back at the schools she has gotten into. She was accepted into schools such as Wesleyan University and Penn State! She will be attending Southern Connecticut State University to major in biology. Although unsure at this time, Jessica plans on entering a career in the STEM field that provides her the opportunity to make a difference, help others, and travel. Jessica expressed her nervousness to leave high school, she said she's more curious rather than nervous."Although I am nervous about the unknown that is to come, I think that curiosity is a better way to describe what I’m feeling. I’m excited to immerse myself in a new environment with different people, where I will be able to grow my knowledge and understanding of the world. I feel nervous at times about my ability to adapt to change but then I think about how many changes I have already adapted to and feel comfortable with the path ahead of me."

"She has accomplished so much during her four years at DHS. She is the last of the Gerckens to walk these halls and she will be missed."
- amy reilly, dhs librarian

Advice for underclassmen striving for top 10

Jessica was very well spoken while giving her advice for the underclassmen:
"Even though this is a very commendable goal, they should focus on creating a schedule that aligns with their goals and interest rather than a schedule that will earn them the highest GPA. I would also advise them to build strong relationships with their peers and educators because true success comes with positive bonds. Take advantage of the opportunities you are given at DHS many students at other schools are not as fortunate to have the resources that we do."