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Lodi valedictorian edges best friend to win recognition

By Julie Z. Giese
News-Sentinel staff writer

It was friendly competition which boosted 17-year-old Jeff Jauregui to become Lodi High School’s top scholar.

Jauregui barely beat out Matt Johnson, his best friend since third grade, to earn the title of valedictorian.

Jeff Jauregui

He also credits his 4.6 grade point average to a strong drive to learn.

“I’m just really motivated naturally,” he said.

Jauregui said his parents — Larry and Becky Jauregui — also pushed him to try his best at academics.

He plans to continue his learning quest into a career.

He’s looking to become a college professor so he can research areas of math or science. He eventually wants to earn a doctorate degree, he said.

“I just really want to study as much math and physics as I can,” he said.

Jauregui said he wants to help figure out the scientific mysteries of the universe.

Math and science have also occupied his extra curricular activities at Lodi High. He participated in Science Olympiad, Future Business Leaders of America and math tutoring.

In addition, he has been a member of the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission for two years.

When he’s not studying, Jauregui enjoys reading Stephen King novels, building model rockets, dabbling in computer programing, camping, hiking and skiing.

In the fall, he’ll head to Harvey Mudd College in Clairmont. He also plans to work part-time during the summer.

Jauregui said he’s excited about his future prospects.

“I’m really ready to move on,” he said.

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