Jahzeel Smith-Gainey (SEED MD ’20) is the epitome of a well-rounded student, and his charming personality and love of sports journalism just might land him on ESPN one day. As a captain of SEED MD’s varsity basketball and soccer teams, Jahzeel has found a way to manage his passion for athletics along with his academics, outperforming himself in both areas year after year.
Before coming to SEED, Jahzeel hadn’t thought much about going to college, or what it took to get there. It wasn’t until he attended a clinic held by SEED MD’s admissions team that he became intrigued by the opportunities that a college-preparatory public boarding school has to offer.
“There were a few kids from my elementary school who enrolled at SEED with me. As excited as I was to start a new school, I was also nervous. It was comforting to know I’d see a few familiar faces when school started,” Jahzeel said.
During his time at SEED, Jahzeel has always looked for ways to give back to those who are less fortunate. He’s had the opportunity to prepare dinner for children battling cancer at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Home, provide resources and supplies to young children in Jamaica, and visit Honduras twice with SEED MD’s Experiential Learning & External Opportunities program. When he first traveled to Honduras as a freshman, Jahzeel’s mission was to help build a school for local children.
“Honduras is a beautiful country that unfortunately has been plagued by violence. I’m so thankful that I had the opportunity to see the country for myself and connect with the people there,” Jahzeel said.
Jahzeel’s most memorable experience in Honduras was meeting a young boy named José, who sold jewelry in the market. José would wait for Jahzeel to return from the school construction worksite each day, and eventually he convinced Jahzeel to purchase one of his bracelets. When Jahzeel returned to Honduras two years later, to his surprise, José still lived in the same area. José ran to greet Jahzeel, saying, “Mi hermano, mi hermano!” meaning “my brother.”
Jahzeel is also a proud recipient of the 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship, which is awarded to students who’ve demonstrated academic excellence and leadership. With the help of this scholarship, Jahzeel is very excited to begin his college journey.
“To be chosen for the scholarship is truly an honor because it shows that SEED believes in me enough to help pay for my college education,” Jahzeel said.
Upon graduation, Jahzeel plans on majoring in journalism at Morehouse College or Syracuse University. We look forward to following Jahzeel during his senior year—and beyond!