What is a Valedictorian?

Hi everyone, I've been hearing the term 'valedictorian' a lot lately. I'm not exactly sure what it means, though. Could someone explain the role and its significance in the context of high school? Thanks!

Hello! A valedictorian is a term used to describe a student who has achieved the highest academic standing in their graduating high school class. This title is often awarded based on the student's cumulative grade point average (GPA) or class rank, although some schools may have additional criteria for selecting the valedictorian, like involvement in extracurricular activities or demonstrating exceptional character.

The role of the valedictorian is considered an honor by many, as it recognizes the academic accomplishments and dedication of the student. One of the main responsibilities of being a valedictorian is delivering a graduation speech, known as the valedictory address, which typically reflects on the experiences and achievements of the graduating class, offers advice to fellow graduates, and sometimes acknowledges the support of teachers, family, and friends.

Being named valedictorian can have a positive impact on a student's college applications. Highly-ranked students, such as valedictorians, may be regarded more favorably by admissions committees, particularly at competitive universities, as it demonstrates the student's strong academic abilities and commitment to their studies. Additionally, some colleges and universities offer special scholarships for valedictorians, which can provide financial support for their higher education pursuits. However, it is important to note that being a valedictorian is just one aspect of a student's application, and colleges consider various factors, such as standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and essays, to make a holistic assessment of each applicant.