University Prep student headed to Ivy League in New York City this fall

University Prep senior Jade Amaya will soon begin classes at Columbia University, the prestigious Ivy League college in New York.

The Victorville student said she was inspired to take a chance and “try something different” when she attended a summer residency provided by the USC Bovard Scholars program. Amaya said she never imagined getting into an Ivy League school,” adding that she thought she might attend Cal State or the University of California schools.

Amaya chose Columbia because it’s in New York City, which could offer many internship opportunities, she said.

“There they had a whole bunch of college counselors from across the U.S. and mentors,” Amaya said. “They told us schools that are hard to get into. They typically meet 100% of (financial) needs. So they encouraged me to apply to an Ivy League school.”

It was good advice — Amaya was accepted to Columbia earlier this school year, with the university covering her tuition and housing. Other expenses will be covered by additional scholarships she earned.

Amaya is in the top 10 of her class with a 4.45 GPA.

Victorville's University Prep is a California Distinguished and two-time National Blue Ribbon School. It consistently leads the region in the U.S. News & World Report rankings due to its focus on academic rigor and college readiness.

“We always tell the kids, wherever they go, we get to go with them,” Principal Valerie Hatcher said. “So I can say, hey, Columbia, we get to be a part of that! Every time we get to send a kid somewhere beyond our borders, it’s a feather in the community’s cap. So we’re celebrating her, and I know she’ll be successful.”

Amaya would like to do some type of work related to education and school curricula, she said. She’s already gained some experience in the field as a member of the ACLU Youth Liberty Squad, which advocates for improvements to student life. Last year, she also served as a student worker in the Victor Valley Union High School District office.

“That tugged my heart a little toward working in education,” Amaya said. “If kids have to be in (a school) environment, it should be enjoyable and equitable.”

Amaya is one of two Victor Valley Union High School District students to earn an Ivy League acceptance this school year.

Superintendent Carl Coles welcomed Amaya to the stage and recognized her along with Adelanto High School senior Rayna Franklin, who is attending Brown University.

“Our students’ educational journeys may lead them in many directions after high school,” Coles said. “For Jade, her path will lead her to the Ivy League. She is an example of what can happen when a student's hard work and dedication is paired with the support of a great school. She brings pride not only to our school and district but to the community as a whole.”

Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: University Prep student headed to Ivy League this fall