Dear Caiden,
WE MADE IT!!! I can’t believe how fast this year has gone, and that at the end of this month you and I will be sending off the Class of 2024 forever. It has been my absolute pleasure to grow up with you, from Mr. Marr’s fourth-grade class to today. I can honestly say that without your lead, I wouldn’t have been nearly as successful as I was in high school. For me, your work ethic was always the goal. Whether it was my grandpa forcing me to study for spelling tests and me thinking of you acing the test, or watching you effortlessly code in Java last year, I’ve always seen you as everything a student should be: hardworking, honest, and kind.
The first time I realized just how extraordinary you are was when you dodged allergy permission slips in fourth grade before class birthday parties because your dad worked in the building. Okay, so maybe that isn’t the best example. Perhaps a better one would be sharing first place in the Voyager egg drop, or when you won the fifth-grade chess competition, or when your proposed invention, Glucose Guardian, won an Honorable Mention in ExploraVision. Looking back, I think Glucose Guardian was the first hint to what an incredible researcher you would become.
Throughout the past three years, I have personally seen you work tirelessly at the research that you are passionate about. From not leaving your house in the weeks leading up to the Regeneron STS submission date, to continuing to improve your project even after most had finished, you have a unique drive to be constantly improving, even when you’re already at the top.
Outside of research, you’ve worked tirelessly in pretty much every extracurricular physically possible. Whether it’s founding a Science Bowl club to include more people in the collective effort of being successful, being a star lacrosse goalie (and being used as the inspiration for the way to remember “bulwark” for Gentictionary), a Science Olympiad genius, or on the board of more honor societies than I can remember, you have dedicated your time (and sacrificed your sleep) to the LHS community.
I can confidently say that you will be remembered fondly for the things you’ve done as an LHS student, but I’m even more excited to see all you accomplish at MIT. You’ve already proved you’re cut out for success, and MIT is the perfect place for you to foster your talents. I’m sure one day I’ll hear your name on the news – no matter what field of study you choose to pursue. If I am allowed one request of you, it’s this: don’t forget us little people here in Lynbrook while you’re off chasing greatness.
Sincerely,
Nora Kane
