By CAROL MONAHAN

Fascinated with Japan’s culture from an early age, Nicholas Varone convinced his mother to let him study the Japanese language with two Brown University students. Although not fluent, Nicholas’ knowledge will serve him well as he prepares for a two-week trip to Japan this July with the People to People Student Ambassador program (P2P).

The Johnston High School sophomore was recently selected as the only representative from the school and will accompany students from across the nation to represent the United States at numerous host countries.

Although several ambassador trips were available, Nicholas jumped at the chance to visit Japan, after studying the language since his middle school years.

“I could have gone to other places, but I really wanted to see Japan and to learn more about the people, government and culture,” said Nicholas.

Founded by the late President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the program has sent students to all seven continents, while emphasizing peace between nations. Student ambassadors are nominated for the program based on their demonstrations of leadership. Eligible students are categorized into the three age groups of high school, middle school and the elementary levels.

Nicholas was nominated by his former English teacher, Ms. Kathy Boyajian, who is employed at the Nicholas A. Ferri Middle School.

Boyajian recently shared her memories of Nicholas, while he attended Ferri, and said, “He came to my team with a thirst for knowledge and the desire to grow.”

She added that he was a “go-getter” who had a reputation for performing above and beyond the call of duty.

As an adult chaperone with P2P, Boyajian is also preparing for a trip this summer, as she will supervise students traveling to Australia, and noted the program’s philosophy is to “educate and culture students who possess leadership qualities with the hopes of promoting world peace.”

While at Ferri, Nicholas was nominated for the 2004 Student of the Year award, and the school recently participated in a “Dress-Down Day” fundraiser to help defray the cost of Nicholas’ trip, which Boyajian estimates in the area of $5,000 per student.

 She anticipates her former student will “grow from this experience and hopefully gain some lifelong friendships,” and added, “he will go far in life, maybe earning a Pulitzer or Nobel Peace Prize.”

As the oldest of Elaine and Jim Varone’s three children, Nicholas’ mother said she is proud of her son’s accomplishments, but is anxious for the long flights to and from Japan to be over.

“I’ll be happy when he lands in Japan, and when he returns home,” she laughed.

While still unsure of what direction his future will take, Nicholas said he is considering a career in a foreign country, with a possible focus on business.

Mrs. Varone said the family is seeking donations to support Nicholas’ trip and interested individuals may call 232-7318.