"I'm not Sonny."

Cody Ngaopraseutsack

Sixth in the Class of 2024
GPA: 4.19
Attending University of Connecticut
Major: Finance
Minor: Spanish

"The only thing that I can say about this student is that he is a very witty student."
- Francisco Salazar, dhs spanish teacher

high school accomplishments

Cody has accomplished a lot during his time at Derby High School! He starts off by discussing how he's been able to gain social skills these last couple of years. He reflected on how before he felt like he didn't talk to a lot of people and didn't like talking with other students. Now, he's made many friends and overall very glad that he was able to step outside of his comfort zone!
For academics, Cody has taken multiple AP courses and is currently taking 5! He began running cross country in 8th grade and went even further by being apart of the pole-vaulting team!

"He has the ability to grasp the directions and be successful in completing any assignment."
- Francisco salazar, dhs spanish teacher

the high school experience

Cody expressed how proud he is of himself to be recognized as a top 10 student in his class. There were days when he didn't want to work on assignments for classes, but gained the will to do so anyway. He's grateful for his parents as they are his top supporters and motivators!
His favorite part of high school has been the bonds he's been able to build with students and staff. He enjoyed being with them during school events such as football games and pep rallies!
"I think my favorite thing about high school is not the education, but the relationships that you build with the staff team and other students in this school. The lessons and advice that you get from these people can carry you a long way in life and I am thankful to have these people in my life. Also, spending time with them and making memories at football games, pep rallies, etc. make high school the most memorable years of my life."

taking the next step

For the next 4 years, Cody will be attending the University of Connecticut to major in finance! With his degree, he will pursue a career in investment banking or financial analyst! Cody dove deeper as to why he wants to pursue one of these careers:
"Honestly, it is going to be very basic, but it’s going to be investment banking or financial analyst. I think that pursuing this as a career has many opportunities for personal and professional growth for me. This industry/job has many learning opportunities and skills that I can equip myself with for the future and also I want to advise high-profile clients with their businesses. However, I think that finance in general can open so many opportunities for me and others in their life. Networking is huge in this industry and even if I don’t want to pursue a job in Finance, the networking can help me find other jobs in things I am interested in. Also, the money is AMAZING, but the workload is horrendous."

advice for underclassmen striving for top 10

Cody gave some great advice for underclassmen aiming for top 10. He provided many important factors from advanced classes to making sure you're consistent with school!
"I would say do your best and make sure you put in the work because it is a good thing to have for college admissions, and overall, your future. Please do not slack off and take education for granted if you are aiming for the top 10. Just try your best and try not to burden yourself with too much work, as it won’t help you in the long run."