Viraj Urkudey, a senior at CHS, finds himself on the 2021 Homecoming Court. As Homecoming makes a stunning return after a 2-year hiatus, Urkudey is honored to be featured as one of the first people on court back in person.

Urkudey is a busy and academically oriented student who makes sure to find time for his own personal hobbies.

“I’ll cook anything that interests me, I’m honestly open to anything”, said Urkudey.

Having sustained that great long-term interest in cooking, he knows the importance of timing, working hard, enjoying the spoils of victories, and striving for perfection. His hobbies don’t just end there, though; like many, he enjoys listening to a wide variety of music. His current favorite genre is RnB- a fitting choice for Urkudey’s chill but eccentric demeanor.

Urkudey’s interest in the environment has influenced his plans in attending a four year college and majoring in marine biology or environmental studies. Urkudey’s drive and passion to create positive social and environmental change on the Earth is something that will benefit everyone in the future.

Being outgoing and funny are two traits the potential Homecoming King says his friends would describe him as. And those traits definitely show through in Urkudey. One could also say Urkudey is a pretty humble person, as he describes his feelings of being elected onto Homecoming Court.

“I’m definitely grateful, and excited that I get to share the experience alongside friends [that have also been elected]” said Urkudey.

And if he wins? He believes it will be a great experience, but to him just being a nominee is enough of a cause to celebrate.

It goes without saying that Urkudey is well-known throughout school for his role as one of the Wolfcast hosts, alongside Mercer Weis. Though he doesn’t regret that role, there’s also more he wants to be known for among the Claremont High student body. He hopes to inspire future hosts of the Wolfcast and other underclassmen.

“I think it would be really cool to be a role model amongst people, like especially people in Wolfcast who want to be hosts later, it would be nice to be there for them to act as inspiration”, said Urkudey.

Overall, Urkudey was a great choice for the court, and hopefully everything works out for the best for him, homecoming and beyond.