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June Students of the Month

Mohammed Ahmed and Patrick Kiel

Mohammed Ahmed

Mohammed Ahmed of Paterson is an individual focused on the cultivation of balance. This member of the Academy of Medical Arts greets each day with the following philosophy, “I humbly aim to approach my classes with an open mind. Even if the information I learn isn’t used later on, I’m thankful for the opportunity to develop new interests.” It is this measure of keen self-awareness that has allowed Mohammed to succeed, earning him the title of Valedictorian for the Class of 2016!

As a Medical Arts student, Mohammed has certifications as an EMT-B, CNA, and in Basic Life Support. He has been a member of FBLA, ERASE, HOSA, the Sign Language Club, Boys Golf, the Chess Team, and was selected for the World Language Honor Society. Mohammed also volunteers as an online tutor for the Einstein Academy of Innovative Learning and as a Board Advisor for Teptu. He has truly made his academic mark on PCTI by earning a potential forty college credits and ranking number one in his class with a GPA of 4.5!

Nights of hard work, studying, and intellectual curiosity urged Mohammed to reach his full potential. His educational interest lies in the effect doctors have on society. Mohammed has been accepted to Rutgers University where he will major in Biology/Mathematics. He aims to go to Medical School and to become a doctor.

When asked about the key to his success, Mohammed gave a very grounded response, “I try not to focus too much on accomplishments as an end game. Working hard is great, but lingering too long on successes can stop you from accomplishing so much more.”

His quest for self-betterment doesn’t stop there. Mohammed has challenged himself in the musical realm by becoming self-taught in fingerstyle acoustic guitar. He also plays the Guitalele and the harmonica in the key of C.

This ambitious Bulldog cited a statement that has urged him to continually move beyond his comfort zone. The mantra? Respect all, fear none.

“Everything encountered in life is valuable. It’s important to push past what we believe we’re capable of, that way, we gain confidence.” Mohammed’s worldview has set the stage for perpetual growth. “I never want to feel like I’ve peaked. There’s so much that I don’t know. PCTI helped me realize the importance of being open minded and taking advantage of my resources.”

Congratulations to this eloquent young man and best of luck in the future!

Highlights

  • Ranked in the top 1% of his class
  • Earned a potential 40 college credits
  • Bilingual in Bengali and English
  • Certified EMT-B, CNA, & Basic Life Support
  • Selected for Freshmen Foundation for Success and Circle of Success
  • Involved in FBLA, ERASE, HOSA, the Sign Language Club, Boys Golf, the Chess Team; selected for WLHS
  • Goal: Graduate from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology/ Mathematics, become a doctor

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Patrick Kiel

Patrick Kiel is a driven individual from North Haledon who lives for opportunity and adventure. This member of the Academy of Information Technology/Computer Science program aspires to do great things with his life. As PCTI’s Salutatorian for the Class of 2016, he’s off to a fantastic start!

His view on Computer Science is thus, “Technology is a great skill to have. I enjoy solving problems, web design, programming, and writing code so this was a good choice for me.”

That’s not the only place Patrick’s interests lie. He’s actually quite fond of science and mathematics. Inspired by one of his favorite books, Plastiki, Patrick has decided to focus on how humans impact the ocean environment. One of his most poignant experiences to date has been scuba diving for the first time. Patrick has since earned certifications in this particular skill.

Within the halls of PCTI, he has been involved in Volleyball and has served as Captain, FBLA, SkillsUSA, and was selected for National Honor Society, of which he is acting Vice President! Patrick’s academic aptitude has earned him the number two spot in all of the Class of 2016 with an outstanding GPA of 4.44. He will graduate with a potential fourteen credits - if not more - towards his college career.

In what little free time that remains, Patrick volunteers as a lifeguard and swim instructor. He has been a Boys Scout member for years and will soon earn the coveted title of Eagle Scout.

Patrick will capitalize on his love of research by attending the University of Miami to further his ecologic understanding of coral reefs and the oceans. When asked why he chose this particular area of study, Patrick said, “I’ve been an advocate for oceans ever since I was young, when I learned about overfishing and how human waste effects the balance of the environment.” His ultimate goal is to pursue undergraduate degrees in Marine Science and Biology and to later work towards earning a PhD.

“During my time at PCTI, I’ve really enjoyed getting involved in sports, academics, and extra-curricular activities. There’s value in doing everything - it’s contributed to who I am as a person. I’ve learned to chase my goals - instead of waiting - that lesson has been invaluable.”

Congratulations to this dedicated young man who is destined for greatness. Keep pursuing your passions and follow your heart!

Highlights

  • Ranked in the top 1% of his class
  • Earned a potential 14 college credits
  • Lifeguard and Scuba Diving certifications, soon to be Eagle Scout
  • Selected for Boys State, previous Circle of Success member
  • Involved in Volleyball (Captain), FBLA, SkillsUSA, selected for National Honor Society (acting Vice President)
  • Competed and placed in SkillsUSA & FBLA competitions
  • Goal: Graduate from the University of Miami with degrees in Marine Science & Biology, earn a PhD

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