At SEED, we encourage students to reach for the stars—literally, in the case of aspiring aerospace engineer Jesus (SEED LA ’26). Jesus has seized the opportunities he has found at SEED LA, California’s first STEM-focused, public, college-prep boarding school. For example, last school year he traveled cross-country to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Mars Innovation Challenge.
“For my project, I adapted a piece in an international space station for Mars and modified it to make it more ecofriendly and to work in tighter spaces. I had to design my own model, make a video, and write an essay.” Jesus’ hard work and ingenuity earned him third place in a field of 5,000! In addition to the accolades, Jesus gained confidence by testing himself. “I was nervous to participate in the challenge, but through my own grit and perseverance, I stuck with it. I am proud of myself.”
SEED provides our students with the chance to shine by connecting them with one-of-a-kind experiences to nurture their talents and potential. In addition to the opportunities that SEED provides, we encourage students to cultivate and share their own interests. Jesus is starting a 3D printing club to share his interest in technology with his peers.
“The club I founded is a 3D printing club. The school has 3D printers, and I asked (SEED LA Head of School) Dr. Lewis if I could test them out. I first started using them on my own and then decided to establish a club. There are a lot of students interested in joining.”
Boarding School -- A Brand-New Experience
The decision to enroll in California’s first public boarding STEM school was a leap of faith for Jesus. He wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but he is happy with the choice he made and the community he has found. “Receiving a boarding education is way different that I expected. I am really engaged in school. The teachers offer one-on-one support, and I love my counselors. They help me with my homework and give me great advice. They are always here to help me.”
During his time at SEED LA, Jesus has been exposed to possibilities for his future that weren’t on his radar before. “I love doing and creating things, but before SEED, I didn’t have a vision of becoming an engineer.” Now that he has found something that sparks his curiosity and challenges him, he is eager to pursue it further. “I’m looking forward to learning new material. I want to be an aerospace engineer, and I want to learn about the different jobs available with this path. This upcoming summer, I want to go to a summer program at MIT for their minority group STEM program. I also want to apply to NASA’s internship program.”
Full Speed Ahead – To and Through College
Jesus is looking forward to his junior year on SEED LA’s recently completed state-of-the-art campus. He will explore career paths, take AP classes, and participate in extracurricular activities such as clubs and sports. He will continue to visit college campuses, attend college expos, and get ready to apply to and enroll in the college of his choice.
As a future first-generation college graduate, Jesus is planning to utilize all the college knowledge and advising resources SEED offers to set him up for success. He has his sights set on several competitive colleges and universities, including Caltech, MIT, Stanford, UCLA, Princeton, and Howard University.
“I am excited about visiting colleges and learning more about the application process. My number one focus is getting ready for college—so I am looking forward to learning about financial aid and scholarships. I have already started applying for scholarships.” As Jesus continues on his path to, through, and beyond college, he will have The SEED Foundation supporting him every step of the way.
