Elizabeth Ettinger and Valentina Truong-Ferreira were invited to lunch with the Austin Rotary Club. They were selected for being senior students who excel in academics, leadership and/or activities.

Valentina Truong-Ferreira

Activities/hobbies:

I am currently involved in DECA, Student Council, National Honor Society, tennis, Vocal Jazz, pit orchestra for the White Christmas production, La Fiera Chamber Orchestra, and school orchestra, choir, and band. I also participate in Southeastern Minnesota Youth Orchestras, playing violin with the Concert Orchestra. My hobbies include playing tennis and violin.

Awards/recognition:

—AP Scholar

—SEMYO Concerto Competition Honorable Mention

—All-State Orchestra member, 2014-15 and 2015-16

—Spotlight of Scholarship, 2014-15 and 2015-16

—Big 9 Conference Scholar Athlete Honor Roll, 2015-16

—Hormel Honor Roll Luncheon attendee freshman, sophomore, and junior year

—Superior ratings at Solo & Ensemble Contest on violin, French horn, voice, and string ensemble

Thoughts on your educational experience so far:

My educational experience in Austin has been very beneficial to me. I’ve met many people and made friends that share similar values and beliefs as mine. There have also been opportunities for me to take advanced classes to challenge myself and expand my knowledge. I’ve also enjoyed participating in the music groups because everyone is committed to learning the music and putting on good performances. Lastly, I am thankful for the teachers that have encouraged me and expected nothing less than my best.

Plans for the future: I plan to pursue a business-related degree at either the University of Minnesota or University of Pennsylvania.

Thoughts about your experience with the Rotary Club: I am thankful to have this experience with the Rotary Club. It was interesting to observe the meetings and be able to relate to my own experience with Student Council and NHS. I also enjoyed meeting members and learning about the organization’s goals and involvement in our community. Through Rotary, I was able to gain another perspective of our community and what is done to support it.

Betsy Ettinger

Activities/hobbies: I am involved in tennis (captain), studio dance, student council (president), Austinaires, Vocal Jazz, band, choir, Link Crew (commissioner) and National Honor Society.

Awards/recognition:

—Selected for National dance tour with Dance Olympus

—Big 9 Academic award

—MMTA piano contest winner

Thoughts on your educational experience so far: I’ve been fortunate to have some excellent teachers at Austin High School who have encouraged me and challenged me. I’ve also been very lucky to be a part of Austin High’s fantastic music program.

Plans for the future: I will be attending a four-year university to study sociology or criminology.

Thoughts about your experience with the Rotary club: I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Rotary club. It was a great experience to be a part of their meetings and hear all the interesting and wise things the Rotarians had to say. I am very thankful for the opportunity to converse with successful adult leaders from the community.