Medford Star Student: A 'Kind' And 'Compassionate' 8th-Grader

MEDFORD, NY — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages, and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Jodi Moran, who nominated her son, Aidan, an 8th-grader from Medford.

Star local student’s name:

Aidan

Star local student’s home state:

NY

How do you know the star local student?

I’m his mother.

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

Aidan is one of those kids that makes nominations like this incredibly easy. To say he is kind and considerate of others is truly an understatement. He is consistently called an empath by his teachers and club advisors in his school. Aidan never hesitates to think of another student’s feelings in efforts for inclusion.

This compassion for others is also extended to the animals he cares for as a junior volunteer at the local animal rescue. No job is too messy if it means he is helping a four-legged friend, and therefore he serves on a weekly basis to clean, feed, and provides socialization in hopes that he can offer some comfort to the rescue’s residents.

Aidan is also becoming increasingly active in his community by assisting with local VFW fundraising and town-sponsored events. This experience has aided in improving his communication skills as well, since Aidan is often asked to write speeches in support of the events he participates in. He values the opportunities for community service as he understands that while he is giving back, he is also gaining confidence and gratification for supporting worthy causes.

Aidan has been noticed for his positive attributes, and he is grateful for any recognition he’s received, but he is also humble and understands that his service is not so he can be noticed.

Aidan is inspired by his many friends and the talents they have. He is always sharing stories of how amazing his friends are and that he wants what’s best for all of them. He’s not competitive, he just wants everyone to be seen, heard, and acknowledged.

Aidan aspires to become an exotic vet (hopefully in a zoo). He often speaks of attending colleges such as Cornell or Ohio State. Of course, at 13 years old, his goals and dreams may evolve or change paths, but we know regardless that Aidan is on an upward trajectory for finding his own success, with his compassion for all lives, big and small, serving as his driving force.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

He has a tremendous heart!

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Aidan!

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