West Haven High School Class of 2025 Valedictorian Justin Wychowski is already progressing quickly through his college career just one year after graduation. He is currently attending the University of Maine, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Surveying Engineering Technology. He is expected to graduate in Fall 2027 and will walk in commencement in Spring 2027.
He entered college with 48 credits already completed through AP coursework and dual enrollment and Early College Experience classes at WHHS, giving him a significant academic head start and allowing him to complete his degree in just five semesters.
After college, Justin plans to begin working immediately in the field as a full-time land surveyor while continuing to work toward his professional license. He intends to eventually transition into construction surveying once fully certified.
For students preparing for life after high school, Justin emphasizes the importance of using opportunities early to reduce future academic and financial pressure. He encourages seniors to take advantage of summer coursework options when available, especially programs that allow incoming college students to earn credits at a reduced cost. “Enjoy senior year! College, if you are attending, is a great time, though work, both in school and employment, catches up with you extremely quickly after your first year,” he said. “Many schools offer discounted summer courses after your senior year of high school for first years. Take them. Any money you can save is money you have later on.”
He also encourages younger students to stay consistent with challenging coursework throughout high school, rather than waiting until senior year to take advanced classes. Justin recommends that students take at least one AP or dual enrollment course each year when possible, particularly in subjects that connect to future college plans. He also points to college-level English as especially valuable preparation for general education requirements. “Take at least one AP or Dual Enrollment/ECE course every year,” he said. “Talk to other people who have already taken them. Make sure the class lines up with your major.”
Beyond academic preparation and planning for college coursework, Justin also reflects on the importance of involvement and how it shaped his overall experience during high school. Outside the classroom, he was involved in multiple organizations during his time at WHHS and credits that involvement with helping him stay engaged beyond academics.
Additionally, college has introduced new environments and opportunities that differ from high school, including activities such as ski and mountain biking experiences that have become part of his routine outside of academics. Alongside his academic path, he continues to stay active in service through a leadership role with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Looking ahead, Justin’s path shows what can happen when planning starts early. From earning college credits in high school to moving quickly through his degree and setting clear career goals, he has stayed focused on what comes next while still taking advantage of each step along the way. As he continues through college and into his career, he remains on track to enter the workforce with a strong foundation already in place.