We’re excited to spotlight Echo, one of our outstanding 2024 Hekymara Memorial Scholarship recipients. Now a first-year student-athlete at Harvard University, Echo is studying the History of Science with a minor in Economics, while also competing as a Varsity Heavyweight Rower. Having been at Harvard for several months now, Echo has settled into his college life, and we’re excited to share some of his insights as he continues his journey at this prestigious institution

 

1. Do you have a favorite memory from middle/high school?

My favorite memories from high school would be from my physics class senior year. Physics was one of the most challenging but rewarding classes for me, and it really taught me the importance of learning and working with others and how to enjoy difficult but interesting work.

2. Do you have any interesting hobbies, fun trips, or other fun facts you'd like to share?

I love artwork, music, working out, and eating food!

 

3. What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were in middle/high school?

I wish that I would have known that skills you can learn starting in middle and high school can help accelerate your college career. I think that learning code or taking a summer or two to get into accelerated math courses can really pay off when it comes to college. It will open many doors for students and should be better promoted among kids of color!

 

4. Has anyone helped you on your path since middle/high school?

I have had multiple mentor figures since middle and high school and even now! I think that just trying to learn from as many people as you can, especially people in positions you would love to see yourself in the future, will give you lots of knowledge and positively shape your outlook on the world. 

 

5. To future and current Independent School Alliance students, what words of advice would you give them?

Know that you are great! You are in such a lucky position and are being set up for success! Take advantage of it, and be confident in whatever you do!

 

1. Do you have a favorite memory from middle/high school?

My favorite memories from high school would be from my physics class senior year. Physics was one of the most challenging but rewarding classes for me, and it really taught me the importance of learning and working with others and how to enjoy difficult but interesting work.

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2. Do you have any interesting hobbies, fun trips, or other fun facts you'd like to share?

I love artwork, music, working out, and eating food!

 

3. What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were in middle/high school?

I wish that I would have known that skills you can learn starting in middle and high school can help accelerate your college career. I think that learning code or taking a summer or two to get into accelerated math courses can really pay off when it comes to college. It will open many doors for students and should be better promoted among kids of color!

 

4. Has anyone helped you on your path since middle/high school?

I have had multiple mentor figures since middle and high school and even now! I think that just trying to learn from as many people as you can, especially people in positions you would love to see yourself in the future, will give you lots of knowledge and positively shape your outlook on the world. 

 

5. To future and current Independent School Alliance students, what words of advice would you give them?

Know that you are great! You are in such a lucky position and are being set up for success! Take advantage of it, and be confident in whatever you do!