What are valedictorians?

Hey there, I'm a freshman and I've been hearing this term 'valedictorian' thrown around, but I don't really know what it means or why it's important. Can someone please explain what a valedictorian is and what it means to be one? Thanks in advance!

Hello! A valedictorian is a title given to the student who has the highest overall academic performance in their graduating class. Usually, this means the student has maintained the highest cumulative GPA (grade point average) amongst their peers throughout high school. Valedictorians are recognized for their academic achievements, dedication, and hard work.

Being a valedictorian is considered an honor, and it often comes with certain privileges. For instance, the valedictorian usually delivers the valedictory address (a farewell speech) at their school's graduation ceremony. The title holds weight when it comes to applying for colleges, as it indicates that the student has excelled academically and is committed to their studies.

Being a valedictorian can improve your chances of acceptance at competitive colleges, as they are often looking for students who have proven their academic abilities. Additionally, scholarships and financial aid may be awarded to valedictorians based on their achievements. However, it's essential to remember that being a valedictorian is just one aspect of your high school career, and colleges look at many factors when considering applicants, such as extracurricular activities, test scores (if required), recommendation letters, and personal essays.

In summary, a valedictorian is the top-performing student in a graduating class in terms of academics. It's an honor that signifies hard work and dedication and can help you stand out when applying to colleges and for financial aid.