What are your favorite subjects in school?
My favorite subjects are math and history because they are straightforward and I find them both very interesting.
What has been your favorite extracurricular activity in high school?
I would say my favorite extracurricular activity has been soccer. It has been really fun to learn the sport, and I have really enjoyed building relationships with the teammates and coaches. The best part has been how those relationships continue to grow outside of practice. I really enjoy getting to see my coaches and teammates throughout the day.
In what ways have you changed the most between the start of your 9th-grade year and now being in your final year of high school?
I am a lot more confident now than my freshman year. I have gained this confidence because UP RVA and Collegiate have put me in places outside of my comfort zone. They have asked me to take on responsibilities both inside and outside of the classroom. Those experiences have allowed me to grow into the person I am now.
What has been the best part of attending Collegiate?
My favorite part of attending Collegiate has been making new connections and having a second home. Collegiate is a place where I feel welcomed, and I know I could always come back to.They also provide so many great opportunities both before and after graduation.
What has been the most challenging thing about high school? Did UP RVA help you at all in overcoming that challenge? If so, how?
One of the biggest challenges has been managing everything that is expected of you. UP RVA has helped manage these expectations. Whether our need is big or small, UP RVA has always been there to support us.
You’ve been part of the UP RVA College Mentor Program. How has the mentor program helped you in your college research and application process?
The mentor program has helped me broaden my perspectives and opinions on colleges. Getting the chance to see so many different schools has opened my eyes to all the different options available to me.
What do you like most about working with your college mentor?
She is always ready to help me with anything. From schoolwork, to college apps, to just life, she is always there for me.
If you had to do it all over again, would you still be a part of UP RVA? Why?
Yeah, absolutely. UP RVA has provided so many opportunities. Between service hours, tutors, people who check in on me, and supporting me and pushing me forward. I always have someone to rely on if I need it.
What are the 2 or 3 things you want people to know about how UP RVA helps its students?
UP RVA supports both financially and academically. They help make sure we can not only attend school, but ensure that while we are there, that we feel no gaps. Academically, there is always someone available to guide us, answer questions and succeed.
-Ny’Keila Short
