2024 Students of Distinction
Alec Krishnadasan inspires empathy and academic excellence
Gig Harbor Now is posting profiles featuring the Students of Distinction being honored by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation. These students will be celebrated during a banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Ocean5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr.
Alec Krishnadasan
School: Peninsula High School
Category: Community Service Achievement
In a world often consumed by conflict, Peninsula High School’s Alec Krishnadasan stands out as a beacon of empathy and hope. As he prepares to embark on his collegiate journey, Alec’s unwavering commitment to fostering understanding and compassion is poised to make a profound impact on his community and beyond.
Alec Krishnadasan
Championing empathy
Turn on the news, and you’ll probably see a story about people in conflict. Peninsula High School’s Alec Krishnadasan would like to see a world with less conflict and more empathy.
Growing up with the example of two high-achieving siblings, Alec nevertheless worked hard to find his own path. Now, as he prepares for the rigors of college, this aspiring doctor hopes to use every day to set an example that will help others to change their world for the better.
“Everyone deserves the chance to have a good day,” Alec says. Whether that’s with his self-described goofy personality or by lending a listening ear, Alec tries to be caring and empathetic to everyone he meets.
A scholar and a leader
But while he might like joking around outside the classroom, Alec takes things inside the classroom very seriously. Although each day presents its obstacles, Alec strives to be present in each class, asking questions and engaging actively with his teachers. He prides himself on his ability to get other students engaged too, especially in group projects. “All students,” he says, “should have the opportunity to learn.”
As Alec sees it, this consistency, positivity, and empathy have all contributed to his academic success, which includes the University of Washington’s merit-based Presidential Scholarship, awarded to students recognized as being among the next generation of Washington’s leaders.
Visions for the future
After college, Alec hopes to pursue medical school and move into residency. Although ambitious, Alec also doesn’t forget the importance of having fun and hopes to have achieved other personal goals by graduation as well. More than anything else, he hopes to elevate the communities he encounters, leaving them, and the people in them, better than he found them.
Alec Krishnadasan
Category: Community Service Achievement
Parents: Deb and Baiya Krishnadasan
Achievements/Activities: total of 350 volunteer hours over the course of high school; MultiCare Children’s Hospital volunteer; Purdy Elementary volunteer; PHS Leadership; Crescent Creek Park design input; Stand Up for Peninsula Schools; ASB President and Senator; Knowledge Bowl; Key Club; National Honors Society; Varsity Tennis; Presidential Scholar for UW (1 of 17 in Washington); Presidential Scholar for Chapman; Finalist for Hunsaker Scholarship for Redlands (1 of 60 in the US)
Favorite Teacher: “My favorite teacher is Mr. Kendall. I have had Mr. Kendall as an AP US History and AP Government and Politics teacher, as well as a Knowledge Bowl coach. He has had a huge influence on not only my educational career, but also me as a person. Under his teaching, my ability to take notes and study effectively has improved immensely. Because of him, I look forward to coming into his class every day and I feel like he actually cares about me.”
Best thing about high school: “The best thing about Peninsula High School is the spirit. I love the environment that the school has whether it is at Fish Bowl or in the hallways. It is so awesome to experience the energy that students bring to school events.”