LOWELL — Greater Lowell Technical High School junior Julie Oum, of Lowell, was the Honorary Mayor of the Day for the city of Lowell on Nov. 12. She gaveled in the start of the City Council meeting, received a citation from the council and joined the members in listening to the proceedings.

Oum is pursuing honors-level coursework in English, algebra and history, as well as courses in biology, digital literacy, and teen health. Following graduation, Oum plans to obtain a bachelor’s degree in political science before attending law school and pursuing a career as a lawyer.

Councilor Erik Gitschier won the mayoral auction item during the 2023 WCAP Radiothon fundraiser to benefit the Salvation Army.

“I chose Julie to be mayor for the day because of her passion for helping people,” Gitschier said by text on Thursday. “She is engaged in civics, our community and her school work. Every time I get the chance to see Julie, she asks about issues concerning the city of Lowell. Her passion was easy to see from the first day I met her, she loves helping others, from her volunteering for Skills USA to working with non profits, she just cares. Her energy for making a difference is something that just stands out.”

Mayor Dan Rourke has offered Oum an internship.

“We had a great time,” he said by text. “[She] is very engaging, intelligent and a caring student. Julie was a terrific representative of Greater Lowell.”