I was always the kid in my family that wanted to be just like my siblings but nothing like them at the same time. My brother is a graduate from SAS Wolfson Class of 2008, so of course I wasn’t going to attend SAS because I had to be different. My mom tried and tried to make me see the benefits of the school and to apply but I just was not budging. I was so stubborn that I ended up missing the application deadline. Once I finally realized that SAS is a great opportunity, I applied late and luckily there was still space at the North Campus.
To say this is one of the best decisions I have ever made would be an understatement. No school is perfect of course, but SAS North is such an inviting place and it feels like a second home for me. I was terrified that I was not going to be able to keep up with all of my peers, but you quickly realize that everyone is going through the same things as you. I have made the best memories at this school and the best friends that I will keep for life.
SAS has taught me so much about myself and has helped shape me into the person I am today. If it wasn’t for my SAS counselor Dr. Townsel making us take a career test, I would probably still be pursuing a career I was unhappy with. This school has allowed me to expand my reach in various activities and organizations and help me find my passion for service. Because of experiences and opportunities at the school I was able to found my non-profit organization, The Period Project Florida Inc. which also got me nominated for a Silver Knight Award. I was able to accomplish many other goals like Black Student Union President, District SGA Social Justice Liaison, an internship with District 2 School Board Member Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, and many more.
The amount of laughs and tears I have shed at this school will forever be cherished. There were many moments that the academic pressure almost got to me, but we have such a supportive group of students and staff that are truly there every step of the way. The teachers at SAS North possess an unexplainable amount of passion for their subject. I had never experienced a group of teachers so willing to do anything to help their students succeed before I came here.
Overall School for Advanced Studies truly does love and support each and every one of their students. I truly feel prepared to further my education at Spelman College in the fall and apply all the experiences/lessons I have learned here over the past two years outside the classroom as well. The memories I have made here will always hold a special place in my heart. I never expected to be where I am today, but my leap of faith allowed me to have two unforgettable years here.
Kai Ricketts
School for Advanced Studies North, Class of 2023
Spelman College, Class of 2027
