Meet Alexandra Pusateri ...
School: Abington Heights High School
Parents: Joseph and Michele Pusateri
Plans: To pursue a degree in biomedical engineering at either the University of Pittsburgh honors college or the University of Delaware honors college
A decorated student athlete, Alexandra Pusateri's commitment to academics is exceeded only by her passion for helping others.
The Abington Heights senior volunteers at St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen and is an active member of the school's Relay for Life committee, which has raised more than $100,000 for the American Cancer Society.
Though she hasn't decided where she will spend the next four years of her life - either the University of Pittsburgh or University of Delaware - Alexandra is determined to pursue a career that will allow her to "help others and have a positive, long-term impact on their lives."
In 15 years, she said she believes she will be practicing medicine in a city on the East Coast, such as Philadelphia or Boston.
"Honestly, I can't see myself doing anything else," Alexandra said.
When she isn't volunteering, Alexandra is likely studying, practicing music or honing her tennis skills.
A captain of the varsity girls tennis team who also maintained a 102.5 grade point average - on 100-point scale - Alexandra said her most proud accomplishment is the six district tennis medals she earned.
"To me, these medals are emblems of the dedication I've put into this sport," she said. "Additionally, my team tennis district medals will always remind me of the four years I spent forming unbreakable friendships with wonderful teammates."
Alexandra also enjoys reading, golfing, running and spending time with her family and friends.