It is quite a feat to maintain perfect grades throughout college. For 2019, University of Delaware medical laboratory science major Katelyn Koluch earned the recognition as the high index senior among her graduating peers.

There was a 17-way tie among students who earned a perfect 4.0 in the Class of 2019. However, Koluch received the honor because she earned the most credits during her time at UD. She was recognized at UD’s 170th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 1.

Koluch, who is from Stewartsville, New Jersey, said she was surprised to learn she earned the award.

“I believe that I have a very strong work ethic, so I was very proud of myself when I had maintained a 4.0 GPA over my eight semesters here,” Koluch said. “It was very exciting to learn that I was the highest and it was very surreal.”

Koluch added she could not take all the credit for her success at UD.

“The University of Delaware has been a very special place to me and I am incredibly grateful to all of my professors and advisors for their continued support and encouragement,” she said. “I always felt comfortable asking them questions and receiving guidance about what career paths to ensue.”

In addition to all her diligent studying, Koluch was very active in extracurricular activities. She was a student alumni ambassador, a member of the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity and served as secretary for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS). Additionally, she served as a mentor for the College of Health Sciences, where she connected with two students from Newark High School interested in a health sciences career. Both her mentees are now students at the University.

Koluch also volunteered with Lori’s Hands, a Newark-based service learning organization. Volunteers are matched with individuals living with chronic illness. Koluch provided support to her clients by spending time with them and helping with daily tasks like grocery shopping.

How was she able to keep perfect grades? Koluch said her secret is organization.

“Maintaining a positive mindset and a healthy balance was always one of my goals.” Koluch said. “I would always look at my schedule in the beginning of the school year and see when I had exams and when projects were due and I would always try to plan out when would be the best time to start studying. I like to give myself at least two weeks to study for an upcoming exam so when the time comes I’m not overwhelmed or stressed.”

After UD, Koluch will work in the blood bank department of the A.I. duPont Hospital for Children. She also plans to volunteer as a research assistant at Christiana Care Hospital.

While she’s excited for the future, Koluch said she will miss UD terribly. She is thankful for all the University had to offer.

“The University of Delaware has been an amazing experience and I am very happy to be a Blue Hen,” Koluch said. “Student today, but Blue Hen forever, as they say, and it definitely does feel like my home away from home.”