Huang's favorite HPHS memory is April Fools Day last year. "In French class, we honored the French tradition of 'Poisson d’avril' by decorating paper fish, writing hoaxes on them and taping them on the backs of our classmates," said Huang. "It was both an educational and entertaining activity, and I still keep a few paper fish hanging on my wall."
Huang is a dedicated and accomplished individual who has made a significant impact in various areas of his high school experience. As the president of the Highland Park National Honor Society and the French Club, as well as the editor-in-chief of the Haute Ecriture French Publication, Huang has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a passion for academic and cultural pursuits. This fall, Evan will be headed to Cambridge, Massachusetts to attend Harvard University and study Economics. Post-graduation, he plans to work in Finance.
Throughout his time in high school, Huang has been actively involved in community service and extracurricular activities. Serving as the social media manager for the HP Environment Science Club as a junior and the secretary for the Vogel Alcove Club his sophomore and junior years, he has shown a commitment to environmental conservation and the well-being of others.
Huang's dedication to academic excellence is evident through his achievements. As a National Merit Finalist and an AP Scholar with Distinction, he has consistently excelled in his studies. Additionally, Huang earned the prestigious Gold in Le Grand Concours, a national French competition, showcasing his proficiency in the language.
As the president of the National Honor Society, Huang has successfully led a large group of students in completing thousands of cumulative hours of community service. Under his guidance, the society has undertaken two semester service projects that have benefited local non-profit organizations. Similarly, as the editor-in-chief of the Haute Ecriture French Publication, Evan has guided a team of French students in creating and publishing articles about Francophone culture online, reaching audiences in both French and English.
Huang's commitment to community service extends beyond his leadership roles. With over 400 service hours in high school, he has been recognized with the Gold and Bronze Scot Service Awards. His involvement with the San Diego Zoo and the Dallas Zoo Crew highlights his dedication to environmental conservation and the preservation of wildlife. Furthermore, as an Eagle Scout in Boy Scout Troop 70, Evan undertook a Crime Prevention Public Service Announcement project with the Highland Park Department of Public Safety, demonstrating his proactive approach to promoting safety and awareness in his community.
Driven by a passion for economics, Huang has engaged in research under the guidance of Dr. J.H. Cullum Clark, Director of the Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative. His report on the economic growth of Celina, Texas, showcases his analytical abilities and his commitment to sustainable development and quality-of-life improvements for urban areas.
As the president of IMPACT HP, a youth board sponsored by the Town of Highland Park, Huang has had the opportunity to learn about local government and leadership while actively participating in community service at town events. Additionally, he serves as a Senior Editor for Polyphony Lit, a student-run global literary publication, where he applies his keen eye for detail to revise and improve student-written poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction.
Outside of his impressive accomplishments, Huang shares valuable advice for incoming HP freshmen, encouraging them to savor the small moments and find joy amidst the demanding high school experience. He fondly recalls participating in the French tradition of "Poisson d'avril," a lighthearted activity of decorating paper fish with hoaxes and playfully taping them on the backs of classmates. This experience exemplifies Evan's ability to appreciate the educational and entertaining aspects of his cultural pursuits.
Evan Huang is an exceptional individual whose leadership, academic achievements, community service, and commitment to personal growth make him a well-rounded and impactful member of his school and community.