Addison Trail names August recipient of 88’s Best recognition
Pictured is Addison Trail senior Aesha Patel, who has been named as Addison Trail’s August recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding academic accomplishments. She's pictured with Addison Trail Principal Michael Bolden.
Aesha Patel has been named as Addison Trail’s August recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding academic accomplishments. Patel, a senior, was recognized during the Aug. 26 District 88 Board of Education meeting.
When she graduates from Addison Trail, Patel will have taken nine honors courses and 12 Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level courses, and she has managed to receive all As. Patel said her parents never pressured her to be successful, but wanted her to pursue her interests and goals. Her parents immigrated from India, always worked hard and followed their dreams – and Patel said she wants to make them proud.
“(Patel) took to honors biology like a duck to water,” said Andrea Grossart, Addison Trail science teacher. “Difficult concepts of abstract material came very easily to her. She was one of my top biology students her first year, because she exemplified the ideal student. Not only does she achieve high marks, but she also is a team player in and out of the classroom, because she is very willing to help and encourage other students to do well in their courses. It is no surprise to me she aspires to become an amazing member of her community. I believe whatever (Patel) chooses to do in life, she will be successful because of her dedication and motivation to be a lifelong learner. I can guarantee she will be an asset to any college in the near future. She has proven herself during the three years I have known her, and I am very proud of her.”
Addison Trail Italian teacher Enza Spilotro agreed.
“(Patel) was a phenomenal Italian language student,” Spilotro said. “She was very self-motivated to do her best at all times. I had the pleasure of having her in class for two years. She is wonderful inside and out, and I know she will go far in life with her positive mindset, determination and passion to pursue whatever she desires.”
While Patel’s focus is clearly on her studies, she also is involved in extracurricular activities that make her a well-rounded student. She is Vice President of National Honor Society, she has been in Key Club all four years of her high school career and she has participated in Italian Club and raising funds for UNICEF.
Patel is looking to apply to Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago and Elmhurst College. She plans to study medicine and hopes to become a radiologist.
- District 88 values the hard work and achievements of students and wants to make sure students are honored and recognized for their accomplishments. The District 88 Board of Education and administration created the 88’s Best award to highlight students’ success. That award recognizes nine Addison Trail and nine Willowbrook seniors each school year for reaching their personal best in various areas. Recipients are honored during a District 88 Board of Education meeting in one of the following areas: academics, highly improved performance, extracurricular activities, service work or performing arts/electives. They receive an 88’s Best glass sculpture and a certificate to a local restaurant.