Intelligence Having Fun

By Max Maier
Einstein described creativity as “intelligence having fun.” Michael Wong, member of the Class of 2023, is creative, intelligent, and a fun person to be around. 

I had the pleasure of meeting Michael on a recent Band and Orchestra trip to Italy. As we toured the canals of Venice, the labyrinthine medieval streets of Florence, and the grandiose squares of Rome, Michael demonstrated his intellectual competence and openness to growth. He displayed a bona fide interest in Italian art and culture and asked relevant, probing questions to tour guides. He’s the kind of person you want representing Strake Jesuit abroad. 

Michael’s commitment to excellence does not go unnoticed by Mr. Guillermo Hernandez-Ching, Director of the Strake Jesuit Orchestra: “Michael is a dedicated musician whose attention is remarkable. When playing in the orchestra, he constantly searches for musical challenges with his violin pals.” Michael pursues the magis in his music, the Jesuit ideal that there is “more” we can do for God’s greater glory. Michael is not content with mediocrity and strives towards high achievement in all things. 

Michael started music at the age of five, learning the piano. He then jumped into the world of band in 6th grade. Though he started with the clarinet, Michael found his true calling in the oboe. He describes with great enthusiasm the unique challenges that this instrument presents and the interesting contrasts of style and performance in the school marching band and orchestra. He is grateful for the excellent guidance of his musical mentors. 

Mrs. Ione Meyer, Michael’s Mandarin instructor, praises his resourcefulness in the classroom. She describes him as “the student you wanted to be as a child. He is smart, funny, and kind.” English teacher and Inkwell Creative Writing Club moderator Mrs. Lesley Clinton describes Michael as “a talented musician and an intelligent student with an upbeat, gracious demeanor.” 

As impressive as Michael is as an individual, he is quick to acknowledge the debt he owes his family. Indeed, Strake Jesuit’s excellence as a school is not just a result of the dedication of students and faculty; it is achieved through the sacrifice of our families. Michael’s mother and father, whom I also got to know on the Italy trip, offer him love and support in unique ways. Michael associates his creative impulses and ability to think outside the box with his mother. Michael’s father, by contrast, has inculcated in him the importance of discipline and routine in making slow, steady strides toward goals. 

Familial dedication is an inexhaustible source of inspiration for Michael: “My family has supported me in my personal growth.” For instance, he says that his parents have shown up to almost every one of his concerts, no matter what day it is or how busy they are.

Michael has big plans for his senior year. Look out for him at football game halftime shows and in orchestra concerts and, above all, listen to what he has to play for you.
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