Sometimes, visualizing what you want in life – and what you don’t want – gives perspective on what’s really important.

Colby Zupetz, the Pine Bush High School Class of 2023 salutatorian, has that figured out.

 

“I can see my goals in the future and what I want,” said Colby. “I know to be successful I have to work hard. And I have a good work ethic – it’s in my family. My mom and dad, my whole family really, have a great work ethic.”

His parents are Amy and Mike Zupetz. His brother and best friend, Trevor, is a junior.

But, Colby also knows it’s important to have a home/work balance.

Colby will be attending Penn State University after graduation where he will major in forensic science and minor in Spanish. He envisions himself going for a masters or PhD someday and working in a crime lab.

He thought he might go into medicine but that work/home balance made him rethink that.

“I think I would like everything about being a doctor except the time,” said Colby. “I want to do what I love and then stop and go home and do something else that I love. You have to do things that make you happy. Not just work. Do things for yourself.”

At Pine Bush High School, running was something Colby loved. He ran cross country, winter and spring track throughout high school and was captain of both teams during his junior and senior years. It was like a second family to him. “Track is definitely a family,” he said. “We truly know each other. I’ll miss that community.”

Colby likes being around people. “I have a strong support group.” He also likes – no, loves – playing with his dogs, Ruger and Whiskey. He enjoys spending time with his family and working at Twin Cone, which he will do throughout the summer. He loves hiking and just being in nature. Colby even likes yardwork!

Colby also loves to learn Spanish. He earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy this year, a process that takes intense study and presentation skills. He will continue his study of Spanish at Penn State.

Penn State was appealing to Colby because of the size of the school – “any program I’d want, they had!” – and it’s “closeish” to home. He is looking forward to attending Penn State football games and all that a big university offers. He may even join a running club.

Looking back on his time at Pine Bush High School, Colby had much to love about his four years there. “It’s a large school but still a close community,” he said. “I formed relationships with teachers and looked to them as role models. I carry their lessons with me. My favorite teachers are good at what they do, but more than that, they are mentors.”

Colby does have advice for the students coming in to Pine Bush High school. “Go to the football games, do the summer academies, join a club. Do things you love. It goes by fast!”

Colby’s favorite class was anatomy and physiology – “I’ve always liked science and math” – and he was the valedictorian of his class when he moved up from CVMS four years ago. That was never his primary goal, though.

“I know not everyone can be the valedictorian or salutatorian, but everyone can be the best version of themselves,” Colby said. “You have to live a life that’s worth living. That is the goal. Work hard and do your best. That will set you up for success.”

Pretty wise words from this young man who certainly is the best version of himself with an incredibly bright future.