Delaware teen headed for Harvard is honored as Distinguished Young Woman of America

It took a new Archmere Academy grad a decade to become an overnight success.

Alicia Chu of Newark began singing in a local chorus at age 7, followed by private vocal lessons at 10. Three months later, she won a singing contest and was invited to perform at the world-famous Carnegie Hall .

Chu went on to become a Juilliard Pre-College voice major and graduated from the prestigious New York program this spring.

At 17, she was named the most Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2024 in June. She was presented with a cash scholarship of $40,000 at the conclusion of the 67th annual National Finals. Chu won preliminary awards in the Scholastics, Self Expression, Interview and Talent categories, amassing $44,000 in cash scholarships throughout the three-night program held in Mobile, Alabama.

The Distinguished Young Woman of America is a national program that promotes and rewards scholarship, leadership and talent in high school girls. Chu beat out 49 outstanding hopefuls.

In addition to serving as the national representative of the Distinguished Young Woman of America over the next year, Chu will attend Harvard University this fall with plans to become a lawyer.

Delaware Online/The News Journal caught up Chu to learn more about what it took to became a Distinguished Young Woman.

Question: What impact has being named the Distinguished Young Woman of America had on you?

Answer: Having to decidedly know who you are at 17 or 18 years old is almost impossible, and communicating that is quite challenging. Being named Distinguished Young Woman of America has given me confidence in my abilities to communicate who I am with other people. Whether in interview, talent or self-expression, each facet of the program allowed me to showcase who I am and the different things I’m passionate about. Gaining the title has also provided me with over $40,000 in scholarships to pay for a large portion of my tuition this year, which is a massive weight off my family's shoulders. Additionally, I now have a larger platform that I can use to help promote my passions and also to encourage other young girls to express who they are without shame. Most importantly, I have gained a new family of 49 other amazing girls and two weeks of life-changing memories that I’ll cherish forever.

What set you apart from the other candidates to win the crown?

I actually studied quite a bit beforehand. I watched past DYW videos to identify common traits among past winners and noticed they all carried a certain poise, confidence and calmness, especially when they spoke. One such person was the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2022, Katelyn Cai. I had the honor of speaking with her before arriving in Mobile, and she advised me to take it all in and to have fun, even when it got competitive. So, during finals night when we had multiple quick changes and were running around backstage, I took a few moments away from the chaos to remind myself to remain calm, to remain grateful, and to just show everyone who I am. However, it is important to acknowledge that there is always an element of luck that comes with these kinds of competitions.

Why are you interested in studying law?

During my time in high school, I participated in both mock trial and youth in government. Through these clubs, I've gained a little experience and a lot of knowledge about the legal field and its importance in society, especially in relation to economics and government. Surprisingly, I’ve also really enjoyed reading court cases, writing briefs and learning case law. I hope to pursue a career in law so that I can explore the intersection between law and economic equality in the United States. Specifically, how is the American legal system preventing citizens from obtaining economic and social equality, and what can be done about it?

If you have an interesting story idea, email lifestyle reporter Andre Lamar at alamar@gannett.com . Consider signing up for his weekly newsletter, DO Delaware, at delawareonline.com/newsletters .

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware teen headed for Harvard is honored as Distinguished Young Woman of America