As the 2017-2018 school year comes to a close, students, teachers and faculty at North Atlanta begin to reflect on the past year — its ups, downs and everything in between. Part of this reflection includes distribution of the school yearbook, a culmination of memories from the school year put together by a talented staff of students. For seniors, this means a chance to be nominated for the coveted Class of 2018 superlative: “Best All Around.” This year, the recipients of this are Shakay Agasarkisian and Shaquille Kokumo, two seniors who have shown outstanding friendliness among their peers.   

In order to be nominated for a superlative, a 12th grader must have enough people enter their name as a candidate for one title from a list created by the yearbook staff. Seniors can be nominated for anything from “Most Flirty” to “Coolest Car” to “Most Likely to Win An Oscar.” Some submit their own names as candidates and some campaign for a spot, but some don’t even know that they are appointed. Agasarkisian was very surprised when she found out that she had been chosen for “Best All Around.” “I was shook. I definitely have some awesome friends for them to nominate me,” said Agasarkisian.

Kokumo, a senior who came to North Atlanta two years ago, was surprised about the nomination as well, but still felt that it was deserved. “I am a diverse person. I love everyone, no matter what their situation is, and I can bond with people,” said Kokumo. “Even though I don’t always have to be at North Atlanta because of dual enrollment, I come anyways because it’s such a great environment.”

Both Agasarkisian and Kokumo have been known throughout their years at the school as positive forces in the lives of the people around them. If asked, their friends would say that the winners of the superlative are outgoing, bubbly and kind, and would put the needs of their friends above their own any day. Even though their friends sing their praises, the two never let it go to their heads, and continue to humbly help and cheer up others. Kokumo, especially, wants to make sure that he is not changed by the honor of this award. “I will forever humble myself no matter what. I will never switch up no matter what happens because that’s what real people do,” said Kokumo.

Kokomo and Agasarkisian will both be attending Georgia State University.

It’s quite the honor to make any superlative, and it goes without saying that best-all around might be the marquee award. So, North Atlanta: Meet this year’s Best All Around: Shakay Agasarkisian and Shaquille Kokumo.