By Mia Cerrato – Editorial Editor

Rachna Vipparala is a junior at Jonathan Law High School who recently won the Yale Bassett Award. She is a member of National Honor Society and the founder and president of Science Research Club. Vipprala also enjoys volunteering at homeless shelters and hospitals. Advocate Editorial Editor Mia Cerrato interviewed Vipparla about her recent award.

Mia Cerrato: What is the Yale Bassett Award? 

Rachna Vipparla: The Yale Bassett Award honors the legacy of Ebenezer Bassett. Born into a Native American (Schaghticoke) and African American family nearly two hundred years ago, Ebenezer Bassett excelled at the Connecticut Normal School and at Yale, where he pursued courses in mathematics and classics in the 1850s. 

MC: How did you apply? 

RV: I was nominated by an anonymous member from the Yale community. The application process consisted of a resume, three essays, and a recommendation letter. Over 1,000 students were nominated across the nation and 20 are selected.

MC: What made you stand out from other applicators? 

RV:  I definitely think that my emphasis of giving back to the community is what made me stand out. A lot of my work involves socioeconomic disparities in both Milford and cross the world, which was what I think made them interested in my application.  

MC: What does this award look for?

RV: According to their website, Yale Bassett Award looks for high-school juniors who demonstrate a record of creative leadership and public service, academic distinction, interdisciplinary problem solving, and experience addressing societal issues that might include, but need not be limited to, race and racism. Students with non-traditional leadership experiences or significant work

MC: How did winning this award make you feel? 

RV: I applied for this award with very low expectations because of how selective it was. So when I received the email that I was one of the 20 students who received an honorable mention from the Yale Bassett award I was super shocked and beyond excited for this opportunity.