FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Jordan Sexton, and I'm from McKinney, Texas; just thirty minutes north of Dallas. Currently, I am a prospective freshman at Howard University in Washington, D.C., and a current member of the Karsh Stem Scholars Program as a student in its seventh cohort.
I have always enjoyed STEM courses in school, with AP Calculus BC as one of my favorites. Still, I wanted to emphasize diversifying my talents by pursuing various AP courses in the humanities, like French and Economics. When I'm not studying for my many AP classes, you can find me after school leading club meetings as president of my school's French club or getting interviews for stories I'm making for my school's award-winning student-led television show, MHS1.
At home, I love spending time with my family, especially playing video games with my three older sisters. I know I will miss them as I transition into this new phase, but I am excited about what my future holds in Chemical Engineering.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
The FOSSI scholarship allows me to give back to my parents for the sacrifices they've blessed me with. My mom and dad have supported all three of my older sisters with their journeys through college, and now they're preparing me for mine. Their selflessness has left a lasting impact on my relationships with everyone I encounter. FOSSI allows me to thank them by granting them peace of mind about funding my education.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
George Washington Carver was a pivotal figure in my life, for his work as a prominent black scientist renovated the lives of African Americans post-Civil War and impacted many industries that we see today. For a third-grade history project, I dressed up as him and delivered a short biography in a living history museum. He changed the world through STEM, and that's what I desire to do with my life.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
After my undergraduate years, I plan to enroll in an M.D./Ph.D. program that will allow me to specialize in research combining both technology and medical innovation. The Karsh STEM Scholars Program at Howard will ensure that I am prepared for the rigor of an M.D./Ph.D. program, but it will be up to my perseverance and discipline to achieve my goals.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I've played over 100 Hours of Mario Kart for the Nintendo Switch.
- I’ve succeeded in 15 AP courses throughout my high school career.
- I can play the violin.
- I am proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro.
Hear more from Jordan about the first time he realized he was good at STEM.
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