Senior Spotlight: James Vissichelli

As James Vissichelli has gone through his time at Metuchen High School, he’s had a remarkable impact on countless people and organizations. Anyone who has met James would describe him as friendly and intelligent. Along with this, he’s a natural-born leader. In his role as both executive president of the student council and the editor of Bulldog’s Bark, he has become a core voice within the school. And while it takes courage to lead, it also takes courage to lift others up and help them do the same. This is what set James apart. Not only is he a good and kind person, but he also brings out the best in others and has strengthened the foundations of each organization, classroom, and sport he’s been a part of.

“James and I have gotten much closer over the past year, and I am so thankful for our friendship. James is the type of person who is always there for you, no matter what. He will always be there to cheer you up, and he always supports his friends. I know that he is going to do great things in college, and I can’t wait to see them!!” - Callie Hanbridge

James’ time running started in 6th grade when he joined track to spend more time with his friends. Though it was fun, he took a break for the rest of middle school. Before his sophomore year, Mrs. Holleran, his 4th grade teacher, encouraged him to give running another shot. James has been one of MHS’s most dependable runners in both cross country and track ever since. He tends to run the longest distances, which require stamina and extensive training. While getting ready to practice, James always reminds himself of how accomplished he’ll feel after the run is complete. He compares it to jumping into a pool - you just have to go for it, and realize that once you’re running, it feels great! To keep high energy, he likes to run to fast-paced music like rap. While to some, running might seem like a solitary sport, James will miss the friends he’s made in cross country and track the most. Throughout the years, they’ve become closer and encouraged one another to grow as runners.

“James Vissichelli has been the backbone of the student council for the last few years. Last year’s prom and this year’s Battle of the Classes were spearheaded by James and were HUGE successes to his credit. In addition, as an advisor, I find James a pleasure to work with. He has an amazing work ethic and a kind heart." - Mrs. Valovcin

Recently, James has announced his commitment to Fairfield University in Connecticut, where he will be majoring in business and running D1 track and cross country. As he continues to run in the future, his main goal is to stay consistent. He aims to focus on reaching longer distances and improving on his times, while also making sure he is taking care of himself and enjoying the sport. While touring Fairfield, James was quickly able to picture himself walking to class and spending time on the campus, a sign that it was a perfect fit for him. He’s looking forward to the elite business program there, as well as its connection to the equally strong film program, where he will hopefully be able to study the business of film.

“James constantly strives to accomplish what he puts his mind to. Whether it be academics, athletics, or clubs, he constantly puts his best foot forward and motivates others to do the same!” - Asher Greenbaum

James began his time with the Bulldog Bark, the school newspaper, in his sophomore year. He started out writing pieces about his favorite movies and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Soon, he rose to write the senior spotlight. This year, he has served as the newspaper’s editor. In the time he’s led the newspaper, he’s created the opportunity of printing two editions, as opposed to just one. Along with this, he’s helped distribute these copies at all schools in the district, as well as at coffee shops and restaurants around Metuchen, where he’s helped find sponsors. During his time as editor, James has started a positive trend of using the newspaper as a way to connect the high school and the community. Handling the articles of many students is a precarious task that James manages to make look simple. By waiting until the end of the month to review and edit all the pieces, he keeps the Bulldog’s Bark running smoothly. Students are able to hold themselves accountable, and countless articles are able to be published each month. James hopes that after he graduates, the writers of the newspaper will continue to inform people about the goings-on at the high school. His wish is that the number of printed editions will continue to grow, and that people around town will be able to pick up a paper at their favorite coffee shop and read a student’s work.

“James was a huge part of making me feel welcome when I joined the Metuchen community midway through his freshman year. He answered questions that I had about the school and day-to-day events and showed empathy and kindness to all of his classmates. We bonded over Ted Lasso, and he gave me running tips. I was thrilled when the following year he joined the Bark when I took over. He was a reliable member and contributor, which is why he rose up in the ranks to leadership and eventually became our editor. He has been extremely helpful, diligent, and hardworking. He has advocated for more student voice and successfully gotten two printed paper editions for this year. James has a genuine personality that makes everyone feel comfortable, safe, and supported. "Success is not about the wins and losses. It's about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves on and off the field." By field, I mean clubs and classrooms, and I am honored to be a part of his high school journey and wish him all the good things.” - Mrs. Cap

During his sophomore year, James felt inclined to try something new, so he joined the student council. On a whim, he decided to run for secretary - and win! That year, he felt that he was performing some of the same duties as a president, so the next year, he ran for president and obtained the position. This year, he has served as the school’s executive board president, overseeing the student councils of all grade levels. Through this leadership, he’s improved his confidence and public speaking skills. James’ decisiveness and ability to follow through have provided constant stability for the student council. His favorite event to plan has been prom, as he loves finding decorations and putting together a night to remember. He has also enjoyed seeing the dedication of the freshman class during the Battle of the Classes this year. From their memorable interactive Star Wars door decorating theme to their unmatched energy during the final competitions, he’s proud of the hard work and enthusiasm that carried the class to their victory.

“James is a great classmate, teammate, and friend. He really cares a lot about the people around him and the community as a whole.” - Kai Englert

Outside of his school extracurriculars, James keeps busy. During the summers, he has worked as the head of maintenance at the Metuchen Pool. While many teens at a summer job would do the bare minimum to receive their pay, James always makes sure to go above and beyond in his work there. He feels uneasy taking breaks when there are ways to help out, and tries his best to stay active and avoid lounging around. Aside from work, James attends Buddy Ball. Buddy Ball is a program where teens are able to play sports with children with special needs. From Buddy Ball, James has learned that anyone has the power to make someone’s day just by showing up. It’s fulfilling for James to see the joy he can bring to others. To relax after long days of work or running, James always finds time to watch good movies. He’s said that his two favorite movies have to be Return of the Jedi, a classic Star Wars movie, and Arrival, another sci-fi thriller. Return of the Jedi was his favorite growing up. James remembers collecting all the characters and obsessing over the Star Wars universe. Arrival, on the other hand, strikes him as a unique and captivating experience. If James could pick one series to encapsulate his high school experience, it would be Stranger Things. Since the last two seasons of the show have come out, all while he’s been at MHS, he feels like he’s grown up with the kids and followed them on their journey. This summer, James is looking forward to seeing the new Spider-Man movie and The Odyssey. He thinks it’ll be one of the best movie runs in recent years!

“James is truly a one-of-a-kind student. He is intelligent, diligent, responsible, and most importantly, genuine. He never passes me in the hallway without a warm smile and a "Hey, Mrs. Wag!" and he is always sincerely interested in our personal discussions and was in our academic ones from sophomore and junior English. I have joked with other teachers that I want to ask James's parents how to raise my son to be just like him, but the truth is that I'm not really joking. I will miss James sorely, and I hope that my own children are as kind, honest, and invested as he is. Good luck at Fairfield next year, James!” - Mrs. Wag

Throughout his life, James has been lucky enough to look up to his parents. He sees them as great people who always make the right decisions and provide him with unwavering support and encouragement. Thanks to them, he’s always tried his best in and outside of school. While at MHS, James has learned a lot about time management and taking care of himself. He makes sure to create to-do lists to stay organized and puts his phone away to avoid distractions. Though he’s a dedicated student with much on his plate, James loves to spend time with his friends. When he keeps his social life busy, he feels as though he’s able to be more productive with the rest of his day. As his time at MHS comes to an end, James hopes to be remembered as someone who always tried new things and wasn’t afraid to put himself out there. It is certain that this is how he will be seen. Whether he was running for secretary in the student council with no previous experience, or joining track to try a new sport, James has consistently looked for opportunities to grow as a person. As he’s gained confidence and the trust of his peers, he’s simultaneously challenged those around him to reach new heights and improve themselves just as he has.