Kiara Kennedy is an articulate, assertive, and responsible young lady with an overall grade point average of 90. She is currently a senior at Information Technology High School and a second-year participant in the after-school program there. Kiara not only cares about her academics, but also cares about the importance of the culture of her school. Kiara is a student representative who sits on the board of the “Info Tech Family Committee,” a small committee comprised of the school principal, faculty, and staff. The committee’s mission is to develop ways to improve the culture and spirit of the school. A born leader, Kiara has always had an interest in helping and leading others.
“When I was young, I wanted to be a doctor. By the time I reached high school, I realized I wasn’t even interested in science: I wanted to be a doctor because I wanted to help people. Now I know that I can use that enthusiasm to connect it to a career with something I am truly interested in: mathematics.
Kiara hopes to pursue undergraduate studies in business administration, accounting or finance. She wants to start her own business one day. “When I get older, I don’t want to work for anyone. I know that I have the drive and intellect to start my own company someday.” Kiara has been extremely conscientious about the entire college admissions process. She has dedicated at least an hour every day after school to learn about the process and complete and submit college applications. So far she has been accepted to St. Johns University, Iona College, and Sweet Briar College. Her number one college choice, Temple University, recently notified her of her acceptance and Kiara is absolutely thrilled.
“I am so excited to go away for college. I can’t wait to be surrounded by other people who are just as motivated as I am to achieve their dreams.” Kiara will be spending the summer preparing for college by working at the School Food Nutrition program, part of the Department of Education. She spends her weekdays serving meals to the public, as well as practicing how to manage, maintain and execute a successful public-service program. “I’ve been working with the program ever since my freshman year of high school. The opportunities here have been endless. I’ve learned so much about how food is processed and what we should be consuming and what we shouldn’t. I hope to share that knowledge with other people in my community.”
Kiara is a member of her fencing team and a committed participant of the Riis Academy G.I.R.L. (Girls Inspiring in Real Life) program. An avid “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” watcher, Kiara is deeply grateful for the opportunities Riis Academy has provided her. “The Riis Academy program has been very beneficial to me over the past two years. Counselors have helped me with my college applications and college essays as well as to develop my own professional growth. Other than helping me academically, Riis Academy has become a place I can go to after school with my friends. It’s a friendly environment and I always feel welcomed.”
Congratulations Kiara! Your motivation and commitment to your education is paying off. Best wishes to you on your graduation from Information Technology High School this year. We wish you the best on your continued journey towards academic and personal success!
