Senior Spotlight: Tiffany Chuquilin

Welcome to the 2026 Senior Spotlight series! This weekly feature will run every week until Central Islip High School's graduation ceremonies. Enjoy!

Senior Spotlight: Tiffany Chuquilin

Activities, Clubs & Leadership Roles:
Varsity Tennis Team (Captain, First Doubles); Varsity Badminton (First Doubles); Stage Crew (Back Stage Lead); Action Committee (Chief Financial Officer); Senior Class (Treasurer); Math Club (President); Women to Women; Computer Science National Honor Society (Vice President); Science National Honor Society; National Honor Society; Superintendent Advisory Council.

Most Meaningful Activity:
Stage Crew has meant the most to me because it became my second home and my family. I evolved from moving sets to directing the crew in just a year. I still remember how nervous I was giving my first cues and coordinating set changes. Taking on more responsibility helped me grow, strengthening my confidence, improving my voice, and sharpening my ability to think quickly. Stage Crew gave me a sense of belonging and will always be one of my favorite experiences in high school.

Plans After Graduation:
After graduation, I plan on working at Brookhaven National Laboratory before heading off to Pennsylvania State University.

Future Career Goals:
I plan on earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Pennsylvania State University and pursuing a career in renewable energy.

Staff Member Recognition:
I would like to recognize Darren Ehrhardt, the bold man himself. He has guided me since freshman year and believed in me when I had very little confidence in myself. He taught me that perfect grades are not everything and that it is okay to make mistakes and have fun. He has been one of my coolest teachers and an even better Stage Crew and Senior Class advisor. I would also like to thank Mr. Ehrhardt for "sharing" his pizza and jelly donuts with me.

Role Model / Inspiration:
My parents are my role models and have inspired me to always push myself. My father left behind his high-ranking position in the Peruvian Air Force to give our family more opportunities, teaching me never to take anything for granted. My mother has worked tirelessly to raise three children and always puts family first. Together, they taught me the value of hard work, sacrifice, and family. Gracias, mami y papi.

What Central Islip Means to Me:
I have lived in Central Islip my entire life, and being part of CI means looking out for one another and helping whenever we can. Through volunteer events like the NHS Food Drive and the Back to School Rally, I have experienced firsthand the spirit of giving that makes this community special.

Proudest Accomplishment:
One accomplishment I am most proud of was helping create Audrey II, Plant 4, for the high school musical. Along with two of my friends, I helped design and build the nearly seven-foot-tall man-eating plant. From planning and bending the frame to hand-stitching the canvas, every step was worth it when we heard the audience laugh and cheer. It was an unforgettable experience.

Advice for Underclassmen:
Be brave and put yourself out there.