Brian is in 12th grade at Impact Academy in Hayward, where he lives with his parents, uncle, and younger brother.  Brian and his family have faced some significant challenges, including being homeless for a period of time.  Nevertheless, this driven student has his eyes set on college.  Dream school: Stanford.  This year, Brian will give his College Success Portfolio defense, a presentation every Envision senior gives in order to graduate.

On learning at Impact: I was kind of a brat, I didn’t want to transition to a school where I knew nobody, not one familiar face.  But the teachers were so welcoming, especially Mr. Jackson.  He was always so happy and positive, and I would stay in his class after school. Every day of my 9th grade year I remember staying after school until 6 or 7 o’clock just having conversations with my teachers.  It was amazing: I never had that before.  Academically, the teaching here is different, being project-based and hands on.  It’s better because it’s more challenging so it pushes you out of your comfort zone.   

On going to college: I feel blessed that I go to Impact Academy, period.  I don’t know what my mindset was before this, but I can tell you that college wasn’t the number one thing.  My mom has told me time and time again, from 1st grade: go to college so you don’t have to struggle like your mom and dad.  My mom, being from Jamaica born and raised, she didn’t have the opportunity over there.  I understand, but as a young kid, I thought I don’t need college, I’ll find some other ways to support myself.  Now, it’s amazing the opportunity that I have, being in a school where college is an expectation.  It’s a norm – it’s celebrated, of course, but it’s not an option.

Check this blog throughout the year for updates on Brian, including his college applications and his College Success Portfolio.