JFK Senior Will Depart to Air Force Academy on Graduation Day

John F. Kennedy Memorial High School Senior Stefan Curcic has been accepted into the United States Air Force Academy and will be heading off on the day of his high school graduation.

Curcic, who is in the top 20 percent of his class, said he has always wanted to both serve his country and fly, so the Air Force was obviously the best route for him to take.

“My main goal once I graduate is to go to flight school and become a pilot,” he told Patch. However, while at the academy Curcic plans to pursue a degree in Foreign Area Studies with a Minor in Russian.

Currently, Curcic serves as a cadet Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force Auxiliary: Civil Air Patrol, as well as a member of the JFK Track and Field program and a piano scholarship student at the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College.

Other activities include: Model United Nations, Student Council, the Superintendents Student Advisory Council, Captain of the Varsity Swim Team, Track, Key Club, Chorus and a volunteer at the Iselin Library.

During a speech by Principal Micahel Cilento, it really clicked for Curcic that he wanted to pursue the military after graduation. He said serving his country is something he has wanted to do for as long as he could remember.

Curcic leaves for the Academy on the day of graduation, which bothered him at first but now he is looking forward to the experiences the Air Force Academy will bring.

“A major life goal of mine has been achieved and if that means having to feel a little rushed getting to the airport after graduation, then so be it.” he said. “I'll be feeling a little bit more than rushed for the next 4 years.”

He added that he understands the Academy will push him beyond his limits and be a great challenge, but it will all be worth it in the end.

“The honor of attending a service academy is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Curcic expressed. “I am truly blessed to have been able to receive such an honor.”