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Schools
It's a childhood dream come true for senior Jordan Fernandez
Utica Community Schools, Community Contributor
How does it feel when a childhood dream comes true?
“I think I'm still trying to come to terms with it,” according to Utica Community Schools senior Jordan Fernandez. “I think it is because it is so surreal.”
The childhood dream that came true for Fernandez is acceptance into the prestigious U.S. Air Force Academy – an honor normally awarded to only 14 percent of the applicants.
“Ever since I was young, I've always been really fascinated with the military,” he said. “I love everything about it, and I take a lot of honor and pride in it.”
It is a pride and commitment that is also demonstrated in his academic achievement at Utica High School and the Utica Center for Mathematics and Science.
“I don't think I'd be in the academy if it wasn't for an opportunity to be part of a specialty program,” he said. MST has had such a tremendous effect on my life. The courses are very challenging and the teachers are just amazing.”
MST teacher Jason Logsdon said that Fernandez will excel with the challenges of the academy.
“Jordan Fernandez leaves every situation better than he found it,” he said. “His curiosity sparks great class discussions in AP Biology and AP Environmental Science. As a founding member of the IRC Environmental Club, Jordan helped to build both a club constitution and outdoor planters... both of which will improve the lives of classmates long after he has graduated."
To apply, Fernandez said he needed to submit letters of recommendation, an essay, transcripts and take part in a panel interview of military representatives. He was also sponsored by U.S. Congressman John James, who personally interviewed him.
Fernandez is currently an airman first class in the Civil Air Patrol at Selfridge. Following graduation, he will report for basic training in Colorado on June 20. While at the academy, Fernandez plans to study political science to pursue a career in the intelligence field.
His commitment to service, he said, stems from wanting to be the person who is asked to make what could be difficult decisions in times of conflict.
“I feel like I've had a lot of guidance and my faith in God is strong enough to be able to carry out all those hardships overseas. I want to be one to kind of shoulder the weight of tough decisions.”
He also said he wants to carry forward a family legacy of service in the military, which goes back to his grandfather..
“My parents really value education, and I did not want to just enlist, but I wanted to go to the officer route where there's four years of college,” he said. “I know all of this is a source of pride for both myself and my family.”
Source: Utica Community Schools
Http://www.uticak12.org
Superintendent of Schools Robert Monroe
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