This month, thousands of young Mainers are making one of life’s great transitions at high school graduations across the state. For this annual feature, we seek out seniors who, because of heart, talent or toughness, are likely to make a difference in the world. And each year the young nominees seem more extraordinary.

Staff writer Kelley Bouchard tells the stories of 10 outstanding members of the class of 2021 and their journeys so far. They include several top scholars, athletes, community volunteers and immigrants. There’s a young scientist, a skilled carpenter, a math whiz and a certified spinning instructor, along with a few social activists and two young men who plan to serve in the military.

They have overcome poverty, homelessness, language barriers, prejudices, preconceptions, debilitating sports injuries and everyday teen insecurities. And they excelled despite a global pandemic that forced them to attend classes online and canceled many club meetings, social gatherings and sports events.

Their intended careers include medicine, international relations, the music business, journalism, engineering and architecture.

They have already accomplished so much and we can’t wait to see what they do next.