Nick on Nick

People in Places Feature - by Craig Whitney

Our own Nick D’Ambrosio was featured on the re-imagined Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader in June, representing our town on primetime.

Nick is 11 years old and just graduated from Russell Elementary School. He has two sisters, who are both incredibly proud of his achievements. His twin sister Rachel graduated 5th grade with him, and his older sister Marissa currently attends Marple Newtown High School.

Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader has returned to television, now hosted by John Cena and airing on Nickelodeon. There will be dancing, singing, games, and overall hilarity as contestants try to win a $100,000 prize and prove that they are, in fact, smarter than a 5th grader.

We got the chance to hear from Nick about his experience.

Marple-Newtown area resident Nick D’Ambrosio on Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader

What was your favorite part about filming 5th Grader?

“I loved the energy of the studio audience. We could hear them cheering as we ran through the tunnel to come on stage! It was so exciting. With unscripted TV you never know what is going to happen! I had so much fun teaching John Cena some dance moves and laughing at all the fun things that happened.”

What was it like doing the show with the cast and John Cena?

“It was great being able to have fun with John Cena. The best part was getting to know him for real because he wasn’t playing a part in a movie. He was being himself and so was I. He’s a really good person and now I can say we know each other. He likes to help people and so do I, we have that in common. I hope to be an Eagle Scout one day. I also got to do something really special on the show, you will see later in the season, that was my most favorite. I can’t spoil the surprise, you will have to watch and see!”

What should people look forward to when watching Nickelodeon’s new version?

“The new version is definitely a must see! It’s hosted by John Cena and that brings a whole new vibe to the show. It’s a new set, it’s a whole new cast of classmates, and the game is played slightly differently. The contestants, John Cena and classmates get to talk more and do fun things as well as answer the questions. The class is full of kids that are really funny and talented as well as smart. Even if we don’t know the answer, you are still sure to be entertained! It’s a game show that the whole family can play and enjoy together.”

Everyone at Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors congratulates Nick on this amazing accomplishment. Win or lose, Nick had fun with show host John Cena, and also got to compete for a Grand Prize in a national spotlight. That requires a lot of bravery for anyone, let alone a 5th grader. Your town is very proud of you, Nick!