COVINA, CA – South Hills High School senior Michael Yuan has devoted his high school years to academic excellence, athletic achievement, and musical passion. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma candidate, varsity swimmer, and dedicated band member, Yuan exemplifies what it means to be a well-rounded student – an achievement that earned him the prestigious Edison Scholarship.

Each year, Edison International awards 30 high school seniors a $50,000 scholarship to support their pursuit of higher education in science, technology, engineering, or math. This marks the third consecutive year a South Hills student has received the distinguished award.

“I was incredibly shocked when I showed up at the Student Union during class and they announced me as a winner,” Yuan said. “It’s a great honor, and it means a lot that Edison International believes I exhibit all the characteristics of an Edison Scholar.”

While Yuan is still deciding where to attend college in the fall, he has been accepted to esteemed universities, including the University of Southern California, the University of California, Irvine, and the University of California, Berkeley. He plans to major in applied mathematics and looks forward to immersing himself in campus life and new experiences.

“Band in particular has been such a great hobby for me over the years,” Yuan said. “It really allows me to wind down when I need it and pursue my creativity. It’s always good to have something you look forward to doing and improving on throughout your day.”

A dedicated musician, Yuan is a member of South Hills’ concert, marching, and jazz bands. He first picked up the saxophone in seventh grade before transitioning to the tuba in his junior year. During the summer, he participates in drum corps – a professional marching band program that tours the country and competes at an elite level.

Yuan has also been a member of South Hills’ swim team all four years of high school, rising from junior varsity to varsity by his junior year. As a member of the IB program, Yuan has benefited from an internationally recognized educational framework that prepares students for higher education through a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum.

“Michael is an exceptional student and a shining example of the talent within Covina-Valley Unified,” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. “His dedication to academics, athletics, and the arts sets him apart, and this scholarship is a testament to his hard work and passion. Congratulations, Michael!”

PHOTO CAPTION:

CVUSD_MICHAEL: South Hills High School senior Michael Yuan has devoted his high school years to academic excellence, athletic achievement, and musical passion, an achievement that has earned him the prestigious Edison Scholarship.