Isaiah

To say that Isaiah is broad-gauged is an understatement. His interests include data science and neuroscience. One of his teachers praises his “growth as a critical thinker, historian and writer” and calls him an ”incredible poet.” He is also an accomplished athlete, playing soccer on both his school team and for the Manhattan Soccer Club Earthquakes. His favorite professional team is the Tottenham Hotspurs. 

On the soccer field, he started out wanting to be a hero. Over time that changed. “I have learned,” he wrote in his essay, “the importance of teamwork and humility. I have realized that true success is about working together as a team and not relying on one person to carry the burden. I plan to use these lessons in my academic and professional pursuits. I will strive to be a true leader and team player.”

Calling Isaiah a “creatively gifted young scholar,” one of his history teachers wrote that he “quickly grasps historical content and concepts, but is unafraid to ask clarifying questions or to take risks in furthering his growth.” Of one of his assignments, she wrote: “His visual assessment, a timeline comparing the experience of his own family with historical periods of Jamaican immigration throughout U.S. history, was well-executed and engaging. “

Isaiah has taken full advantage of opportunities outside of school, as well, including programs at New York University, Google, Cooper Union, and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he shadowed pediatric nurses. What he ends up doing after college is anyone’s guess, but it’s clear his path there will be rich and diverse in exploration.

The teacher/mentor that has made the greatest difference in my life is Johann Smith, Soccer Coach.  

Coach Johann Smith has made a big difference in my life as he has not only provided me with the improvement of my soccer capabilities but also instilled core values such as focus, consistency, and better time management. He mentored me both on and off the field, guiding me to improve myself mentally and physically, and as a result, has spurred me to prioritize and understand the importance of personal growth. Coach Johann’s gift of the book "A Man's Search for Meaning" sparked introspection and a deeper understanding of not only myself but the intangibles and tangibles that will impact me. The book has inspired me to strive for love, hope, discipline, and inner freedom.