If I had to describe SEED to someone, I'd call it a school of opportunities. Nine times out of ten, if you come here for one specific thing, you'll end up doing so many other things you never thought you would. My journey to SEED began on the basketball court. As a freshman, I was at another school that wasn't the right fit. I was looking for a change, and that's when Coach Eddie saw me play. He told me about SEED—not just about the basketball program, but about the opportunities. I worked out with him, visited the campus, and in October of my ninth-grade year, I transferred to SEED MD. It felt like a good fit right away, but the transition came with a few challenges that ultimately fostered my personal and academic growth.
Coming to SEED was a jolt, academically and athletically. My first school was easy; they practically handed out A's just for showing up. Here, I had to apply myself. Getting my first challenging schedule forced me to realize I needed to step back and figure out what to do to get better. At first, it was difficult, but the resources at SEED were helpful. Living on campus was key because it helped me free up my mind to focus on my schoolwork and try new things. Similarly, the athletic level was a big leap—we were playing better opponents, and I had to learn to play at a new speed. Despite the struggle, we pushed through. Last year, in my junior year, we made it to the state championship—the first time in school history. I've also had the privilege of serving as team captain since 10th grade. Knowing my teammates see me as a leader and want my support is a great feeling.
When I first arrived at SEED as a freshman, I had no expectations for a college prep boarding school. I always got good grades and played sports, but SEED showed me there is more to life than just basketball and books. One of the most transformative experiences was the international trip to Brazil. It was my first time going so far, and I loved experiencing a different country, from the city life in Rio to the countryside, where we worked with local students. We ran basketball camps and had coachable exchanges—we learned a lot about their country, and they learned about ours. Another emotional and educational trip was to Montgomery, Alabama, in 10th grade. We dove deep into African American history, learning things they don't teach as much in school anymore. These opportunities, and the exposure to new activities, have truly helped me grow into the person I am today.
If I were to pick one personal “seed” I've planted at SEED that I'm most proud of, it would be my growth as a person. If I told my freshman self that I would be an ambassador and Mr. SEED—I would have said, "Naw." I thought I just wanted to play basketball. But I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new roles. This journey taught me a lot about patience and resilience.
The connections I've made with my peers, who come from so many different backgrounds, have been my favorite part of SEED. And I’ve formed important relationships with adults, too. My counselors Mr. Crawford and Mr. Smith have been like father figures. Right now, I’m focused on my senior season and college plans. I recently visited St. Mary's College and like it for both basketball and academics. Looking back, SEED has given me the confidence and the skills to chase both my academic and athletic goals. I am most proud that I chose to be more than just a basketball player. I chose to grow.