By Samiksha Mehta – Entertainment Editor

Jonathan Law senior Mike Loschiavo recently won the Boys and Girls Club of Milford’s Youth of the Year Award. The Youth of the Year Award is presented to one teenager every year by the Boys and Girls Club of Milford to award and signify their leadership, community service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle. Entertainment Editor Samiksha Mehta interviewed Loschiavo about winning the award.

Samiksha Mehta: How did it feel to receive the Youth of the Year Award?

Mike Loschiavo: It felt great to receive the Youth of the Year Award because I feel like I put a lot of time into the Boys and Girls Club of Milford and it was a great achievement for me because I always aspired to one day be the YOTY.

SM: What are the qualifications for the Youth of the Year Award?

ML: Youth of the Year is part of the Boys and Girls Club of America’s premiere recognition program. It celebrates young people, ages 14-18, for their commitment to community service, academic success, good character, citizenship, and establishment of long-term goals.

SM: Does the Youth of the Year Award have any special significance to you?

ML: Yes, because I was a club kid once and I always looked up to young teens that received this award and now I feel like my dream has come true by receiving this award myself.

SM: What was the most difficult challenge for you in winning Youth of the Year?

ML: It’s a great honor to be the Youth of the Year because it’s something that’s really hard to get. Before advancing on to the next round, you need to speak in front of judges and have a well-written speech prepared.

SM: What does Youth of the Year mean to you?

ML: It feels extremely great to receive this award because young people look up to getting this. The Youth of the Year is only handed out to a young person that exemplifies leadership, community service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.