Actually, everyone thinks you're the valedictorian and that's really what is important. Your SO will be given the award rightly via email or in some dank office, but you got the glory when it counted!

what is this valedictorian cord thing? not a native american/englishman...

When you go through a graduation ceremony, there are various accessories to the regalia that signify certain achievements or affiliations. There are cords, stoles, sashes, tassels, chevrons, hoods, etc that you'll need to decode.

Valedictorian is the graduate with the highest grade point average

It's the tassels on the graduation cap. Different colors represent different things. (Valedictorian, various Honor Society memberships, etc.)

Then give them congratulations and revel in being third smartest! Sorry to hear that OP, but you can at least feel happy for your partner!

All anyone will remember is that you were the Valedictorian. Tell your steady, "If there's no pics, it didn't happen."

smart people problems...

Although that sucks,you're still in the very top 10 percent of your class. i wouldn't quite say that's an fml.

first world problems.

So you are one of the smartest people in your class and dating the smartest person in your class? That sounds like you are on the right track and you should be happy for all of that.