At what grade level did you start at The First Academy?

I came to TFA in Kindergarten.

What were the reasons you or your parents chose The First Academy?

My parents wanted to place me in a Christian environment that also offered a great education.

Are you involved in extracurricular activities? If so, what are they and have you received awards for these activities? (These can be affiliated with TFA or outside of school)

I played varsity basketball from 7th through 10th grade (I earned the coaches award and heart award, and was captain in my freshman and sophomore years). I played varsity lacrosse (I earned the Most Outstanding Player award in 10th grade and the Hustle award in 11th grade). I am a US Lacrosse Academic All-American and I played in the Under Armour All America Uncommitted game. I spent a month living and learning at the University of Pennsylvania in their PennMed Program. I served as a house leader my junior year and participated in Sports Medicine my senior year. I am a member of the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and I am an AP scholar.

Which colleges have you applied to and which ones have you be accepted to thus far? (Please include if you have made a decision to attend a certain college next year)

I have applied to 14 schools. Vanderbilt, UVA, Tulane, Duke, FSU, UF, and UPenn to name a few. I have received admissions to UF, FSU, UCF, and USF. I was denied admission at UPenn, and I am waiting to hear back from the remaining schools.

What do you plan to study in college and what are your long-term career goals?

I plan to major in biochemistry on the pre-medicine track. I hope to go to medical school and become a surgeon.

Have you received any college scholarships? If so, which ones? (Or, which ones are you currently nominated for)

I am qualified for the highest Bright Futures Scholarship. I have received scholarships to UCF and USF. I also received the UF Presidential Scholarship.

Who is/are your favorite TFA teacher(s), and why? (Teachers can be K4-12)

One of my favorite things about TFA is the care the teachers give. I loved my STEM teachers, specifically Mr. Oliver, Mrs. Oswald, Mrs. Markowitz, Ms. Pierre-Louise, and Mr. Harrison. They have taught me so much about their subjects and have instilled in me my love for sciences and medicine.

How has TFA made a difference in, or impacted your life?

TFA has taught me that independence and individuality is a trait that should be strived for and not suppressed, hard work is an intangible facet to success, and that intellectual curiosity is best developed when it leaves the walls of the classroom.

How do you feel that The First Academy has prepared you for life after graduation?

TFA has taught me to never worry about the future because it all lies in God’s hands. I feel prepared to step into an atmosphere that is completely foreign and still maintain my beliefs and aspirations.

What does it mean to you to be a The First Academy alumni?

Being a TFA alumnus means that I am a part of a community that has the common goal of honoring God through excellence.