Zoe Leader (SEED Miami ’21) is a high academic achiever who has been an honor roll student every year since she enrolled at The SEED School of Miami. She began her journey with SEED as a sixth-grade student and was immediately drawn to our Sparks program—an afterschool program where students have an opportunity to join various clubs and discover their passions and hidden talents.
As a member of the Mock Trial Spark, Zoe participated in simulated trial competitions and gained a deeper understanding of the key elements of the U.S. judicial and legal system. She even had the opportunity to debate other students at a competition held at Florida International University! This experience has inspired Zoe to pursue a degree in criminal law. SEED Miami board member and civic trial lawyer, Tom Culmo, has also supported Zoe in her journey to becoming a lawyer. As Zoe’s mentor, he shares words of encouragement and wisdom he’s gained during his career. Upon graduating from SEED, Zoe plans on enrolling as a pre-law major at Stanford University.
“Mr. Culmo’s words and insight as a lawyer were motivational, especially for someone like me looking to pursue a career in law.”
One of Zoe’s greatest accomplishments is receiving the 2020 Carson Scholarship. The Carson Scholars Fund awards college scholarships to students in grades 4 - 11 who excel academically and are dedicated to serving their communities. Scholarship recipients are awarded a $1,000 scholarship and receive a medal and a trophy for their school. Zoe was also accepted into the University of Miami Summer Scholars Program. Through this international program, Zoe will spend her summer gaining college experience and college credits.
“Participating in this program will bring a multitude of opportunities for me, like networking, connecting with like-minded peers, and providing me with the foundation needed to flourish during my college journey.”
We’re so proud of Zoe’s accomplishments and look forward to following her journey to high school graduation, college, and beyond!