Valley Stream South High School student Jia Ru Yang has been awarded First Place in Hofstra University’s 2025 Celebration of Suburban Diversity Student Essay Contest.
Jia Ru’s winning essay explored various insensitivities and implicit biases bilingual students face in their daily lives. In her essay, she discussed her personal journey, and exploring themes of language, bias, and belonging while also celebrating the strength and richness multilingual students bring to the community. The essay impressed judges with its keen observations and interpretation of issues surrounding diversity on Long Island, earned her the top prize of a $3,000 scholarship.
“We are incredibly proud of Jia Ru for this astonishing accomplishment,” said Matthew Swinson, Principal of Valley Stream South High School. “Her success in this important contest is a testament to her talent, hard work, and insightful perspective.”
Jia Ru was formally recognized and presented with her scholarship award certificate at Hofstra’s Celebration of Suburban Diversity 2025 event on November 18, at the Crest Hollow Country Club. The $3,000 scholarship will be disbursed upon her graduation and acceptance into an accredited institution of higher learning.
Teacher Dr. David Fritz, from left, Principal Matthew Swinson, Jia Ru Yang, and counselor Russell Garcia.
Principal Swinson congratulates Jia Ru in his office.