Bensson

ATTLEBORO — When James A. Bensson first entered Attleboro High School four years ago he stood about 5-foot-2. He describes the experience as being inside a huge, intimidating building, lost among a group of “giant seniors.”

It was a humbling moment, says Bensson, who came from a small middle school. And he decided that for him, high school would be all about working hard, giving everything his best shot, while maintaining a low profile. Or as he puts it, being “quiet in the background.”

But though he did work hard all through high school, he couldn’t achieve his second goal.

The now 5-foot-11 young man recently graduated first in his class of more than 400 students, not only setting himself apart through his grades but also through a host of extracurricular activities.

Breaking out of his shell was initially difficult, Bensson says. But his athletic ability made him stand out; he bonded with his teammates and made friends easily.

He played tennis and soccer all four years. He served as vice president of the student council, helping plan the spirit rally, a variety show and various other events throughout the school year. He was involved in the Leo Club and the National Honors Society.

“I never see this kid studying,” says Rebecca E. Richard, the Class of 2008’s co-adviser. “He’s unassuming, really laid back. I guess he has really amazing time management.”

Sports were an essential part of Bensson’s high school life, giving him a much-needed break from school and schoolwork.

“It got my mind out of the classroom for three, four hours,” he says.

In fact, he says if it weren’t for athletics, he would have been lazier, and perhaps, not as productive academically.

His proudest, most memorable moment of high school came when he received his blue-and-white varsity jacket and six varsity letters.

High school for Bensson was all about keeping busy, whether through academics, sports or extracurricular activities. On most nights he managed to finish all his work to go to bed at a reasonable hour. He never had to pull an all-nighter, though that might change this fall when he goes off to Brown University, where he will study physics or engineering.

When he is at home with a little free time on his hands, Bensson likes to sleep and watch TV. Or play pickup soccer, tennis and ultimate Frisbee.

There’s just one thing he can’t do.

“I can’t stand sitting at home doing nothing,” he says.

njayakri@projo.com