VIDALIA — Laura Perilloux moved to Vidalia four years ago, not knowing any of her ninth-grade classmates.

Today, she celebrates her high school graduation as the valedictorian of Vidalia High School.

“At first it was tough making friends, Perriloux said. “Most of my friends were older. But now, I feel like part of one big family.”

Perriloux said her friends tease her, asking if she has ever earned a B. In fact, her 4.0 GPA includes a B, earned her first year at Vidalia High School.

During her time in Vidalia, Perilloux participated in several extracurricular activities, including softball, dance line and Key Club.

“Both of my parents stayed on me to work hard,” she said. “Senioritis was never an option. At first I resented it a little, but now I appreciate it a lot.”

Perilloux’s mother was also named valedictorian of her high school class.

After graduation, Perilloux plans to attend Centenary College of Louisiana in Shreveport. Centenary was initially low on her list of choices, though. “One reason I chose Centenary was because it was in-state,” she said. “I went on campus and made a lot of friends. I had a good experience there and knew it was the right place.”

Perilloux plans to double major in business and neuroscience. She said she would like to be an ophthalmologist after going to medical school.

Similarly to when she moved to Vidalia, Perilloux said she doesn’t know anyone attending Centenary, but she is excited to begin her first year of college.

“I joined the Facebook group and have talked to a few people on there,” she said. “I’m really happy with Centenary and excited to start school.”

Before she begins her summer, Perilloux will deliver a speech at graduation.

“I’m actually a little nervous about it,” she said. “But, it’s an honor to be named valedictorian. The chance has always been there. I’ve stayed focused on just doing my best.”