Each year, Prep selects an “Unsung Hero” to honor at a county-wide reception. This year, our Unsung Hero Recipient is … senior Paul Ayala!
Across the state of New Jersey, the Unsung Hero Award goes to students who have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and outstanding community service. Paul is a current senior who has big dreams. He has been a band section leader, a member of the Passaic Marching Band, Passaic Pep Band, academic superstar, and is currently a United States Marine Corps Poolee!
You can watch the Unsung Hero ceremony here: https://www.youtube.com/live/PjascEXeT2I?si=PVUqzCZvdNBV6I6k.
Paul gave The Boulevard Online some of his time to answer a few questions:
The Boulevard Online: What activities have you participated in throughout your high school career?
Paul: Throughout my high school career, I’ve participated in Student Council, National Honor Society, Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Thespians, and school musicals.
TBO: Do you have any special achievements?
Paul: I have earned honor rolls along with the AP scholarship award.
TBO: What are your plans after high school?
Paul: I plan on serving in the United States Marine Corps and attending college.
TBO: In 10 years, where do you see yourself?
Paul: In 10 years, I see myself still serving in the U.S. Marine Corps and in the USMC Band.
TBO: Do you think you deserve this award? If not, why?
Paul: I feel like I don’t deserve this award because there are other students who have done more than me. I just participate in activities because… why not?
TBO: How did you feel about this award?
Paul: I was very much shocked knowing I was named the recipient of this award.
TBO: What would you tell the next Prep Unsung Hero Award nominee/recipient?
Paul: Take pride in your work.
TBO: We noticed you have participated in music, how long have you been involved in music?
Paul: Two years.
TBO: Were you aware this award existed?
Paul: No.
TBO: Elaborate on your extracurricular activities.
Paul: For Student Council, I was a member and participated in as many service events as possible. For musicals, I was a stage manager. For band, I attend practices, perform in concerts, parades, compete and lead my section.
TBO: How would you describe the past four years of your high school career?
Paul: The past four years have been boring, but fun. I have been with my growing friendships throughout high school and I like my social circle, so that’s made it better.
