I’m Coming to Keene State: Valedictorian Nicholas Yialiades

Nicholas Yialiades, an incoming freshman at Keene State College, works as a teacher in Hinsdale Middle School’s summer school program—an experience that opened his eyes to a career in education.

“I absolutely loved it,” said Yialiades, the class valedictorian from Hinsdale High School, about his experience in the classroom the past three summers. “I put two and two together, I love both history and teaching, so that’s what I want to pursue at Keene State.”

Once in the classroom, Yialiades, who will major in secondary education, realized the positive influence he had on his students. “It’s really a feeling like no other,” he said. “There is something about realizing that you have an impact on a student’s future. Some days can be difficult, but most days are so rewarding. There’s nothing quite like it.”

Yialiades kept very busy at Hinsdale High. The class president the past four years, Yialiades has been a member of the National Honor Society, served as a student Rotarian, was a member of the Core Values Committee for the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and has been the school board student representative. He has received the Marine Scholastic Excellence and the Excellence in History and World Language Awards.

Serving as chapter president of the National Honor Society, Yialiades help plan several service activities, including two blood drives and fund-raisers for the leukemia-lymphoma society and scholarships for Hinsdale seniors.

“Knowing what I want to pursue in college has really allowed me to focus on my goals,” said Yialiades. “I’m excited about coming to Keene State to begin a new adventure in my life.”