Student Spotlight: Nina’s Exploration of Postsecondary Pathways
High school senior Nina A. has steadily persevered through significant changes in her educational journey to find her own path forward. A native of Ghana, she immigrated to the U.S. at a young age and enrolled in The Young Women’s Leadership School (TYWLS) of Manhattan. From remote learning in middle school during the pandemic to a daily commute from the Bronx to her high school, Nina has taken on leadership roles and emerged as a quietly confident leader and role model. She shared her journey with us and is excited about her plans after high school.
Leadership at TYWLS
Q: Among the many opportunities for leadership roles, you decided to become a Student Ambassador at TYWLS. What do you enjoy about this role?
I enjoy giving tours of the school and showing visitors why I love going to TYWLS. I’ve met a lot of different people, such as teachers and principals from other schools, future parents and volunteers, and even political leaders from around the world. Even before I became an official Student Ambassador, I’ve volunteered to help at school events and show guests around since middle school.
Q: While TYWLS is known for its STEM curriculum, the school also offers a variety of activities and courses. Can you tell us about some of your favorites?
I love math at TYWLS. I think all the teachers can actually teach very well and make it exciting. I also love science, especially neurology. It’s exciting to me to learn about the brain and how it functions. I also take part in the crochet club and the running club at school.
Exploring College and Career
Q: A big part of the TYWLS Manhattan school culture is the focus on college and career pathways. Can you tell us about your plans for the future and how Student Leadership Network supports your journey?
I’ve always considered joining the Navy since I was younger. My father suggested it, and I did my own research about the opportunities for education, travel, and other benefits.
I told Ms. Kristen Gordon [of Student Leadership Network’s Girls’+ Education team], who manages the TYWLS Student Ambassador program, about my interest, and she connected me with a field trip to West Point with the Amplify Her Foundation. I was blown away by the female leaders, the different paths in science and engineering in the military, and the way the students were so engaged. It actually reinforced for me that I want to enlist in the Navy when I graduate.
Q: How did your Director of College Counseling support your decision?
My college counselor at the time, Ms. Figz [Angelique Figueroa, Associate Director of CollegeBound Initiative], really listened to me, and she encouraged me to still attend the college fairs and go through the financial aid workshops and applications to understand my full options. She respected my interests and trusted that I was making an informed decision. I’m committed to enlisting in the Navy, and I’m eager to start life and learning in the real world!
Use your resources to your full potential and focus hard on the things you want to pursue in life.
Q: Do you have any advice for younger students who are just starting to think about college and career options?
My advice for younger students is to continue to use your resources to your full potential and focus hard on the things you want to pursue in life. Be the leader that you are, and being able to stand out from the crowd is important for you to inspire others.
