Jennifer Yaccino ~ My Senior Story

Going into Trinity, I was not a very confident girl.  I had been bullied in middle school, and did not have a lot of self-confidence. In grammar school, I had performed in theater since I was six, and danced since I was eight. I was a competitive tap dancer for 5 years, and was forced to leave the team. I always had small roles, and was cast aside a lot, which made me feel like I was not good enough.  

At the beginning of freshman year, my grades were not good. Although I was happy to be at Trinity, I had no confidence in myself, which really affected my grades. I really applied myself and was able to get my grades fixed, and then after that, I started soaring. I went from surviving to thriving. 

From sophomore year on, I was continually achieving honor-roll every block. I tried doing cross country and track freshman and sophomore year, but I discovered those were not for me, and I kept getting injured.   I took this as a sign to stop. I performed in the musicals all four years. Junior year was the first year without cross country or track, so I decided to devote my time to theater. This was an amazing choice. I earned featured roles, and I re-discovered my passion for theater and the fine and performing arts. 

I enjoyed making so many new friends in these extra curriculars, which really boosted my confidence. My passion helped me win many awards at Trinity. I became a member of the International Thespians Honor Society, and the National Art Honor Society, which also improved my outlook. I am not very shy anymore, and I have become very positive, and I am a happier person. This is all because of Trinity. The positive environment made me feel more empowered and gave me confidence. I don’t think I would have turned out the way I am now if I had gone to another high school.  I am who I am because of Trinity.

Jennifer Yaccino, Dominican University
Ascension Grade School