Westhampton Beach High School junior Julianna Najdzion recently participated in the prestigious Stanford Summer Humanities Institute, a rigorous three-week academic program at Stanford University that brings together exceptional students from around the world. 

Based on her academic qualifications and teacher recommendations, Najdzion was one of 100 students selected to participate in the highly competitive program, which has an acceptance rate of less than 10%. 

Through the institute, Najdzion engaged in college-level study and discussion under Stanford University professors. She also worked alongside Stanford faculty to conduct research and write a research paper, gaining valuable experience in academic research, writing and critical analysis.

Her participation in the institute is one of many accomplishments that reflect her commitment to academic excellence. She maintains straight A’s while taking some of her school’s most challenging courses and is consistently named to the Principal’s Honor Roll. She is also a member of her school’s Model UN and Debate Club.

Beyond academics, Najdzion has accumulated more than 250 hours of community service through organizations including Quogue Wildlife Refuge and Riverhead Polish Hall and has served as a student director of the East Quogue Elementary School Drama Club. She is a member of Southampton Town Youth Bureau’s Youth Advisory Committee and will serve as chairwoman this school year. She is also working toward the Distinguished Youth Award with Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker.

Najdzion is also involved with the YMCA’s Youth and Government program, where she served as a service-learning liaison last year. Through her involvement with Southampton Town, she has traveled to Albany for advocacy days, meeting with state senators and Assembly members to discuss issues important to young people and the community. In addition, as an active participant in Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, she attended the program’s spring conference and will attend its fall event.