Breawna Smith’s journey has been a remarkable one. The Q.I. Roberts Jr-Sr High School senior and Palatka Jr-Sr High School athletic standout is now the school’s first Ivy Leaguer, receiving a scholarship to attend Cornell University.
“As I began making a list of colleges I was interested in at the beginning of 11th grade, most online resources suggested having a 'reach' school, one that is a challenge to get into, along with a handful of obtainable colleges and a safety college. I figured there was not much more of a challenge than an Ivy League college, so I began researching the Ivies and found out that Cornell has the best agriculture college in the United States,” Smith said. “It is also one of the most renowned medical schools in the world, which encompasses my two main interests, leaving my future plans more open. Before applying, I went to New York before my senior year to see the area and the campus. While the academics at Cornell are amazing, the campus and the nature in Ithaca are breathtaking. Looking out over the mountain range from one of the libraries, I knew this was my dream school.”
Donna Richardson, Breawna’s mom, couldn’t be more proud. “After Breawna visited Cornell it was apparent where she wanted to go. She made the choice to apply for early decision, and the actual process of applying was all her with the help of teachers, counselors, and Principal Joe Theobold. Once everything was submitted, the wait began. Other schools were sending out their acceptance letters as we anxiously awaited a response. Finally, it was mid- December (the 13th to be exact), and it was a usual day. We went to work, Breawna went to school, and there was a soccer game to follow. At the game, she checked her phone and saw an update to her Cornell profile, and there it was. She opened the email and then came to me with tears in her eyes and simply said 'I got in.' I immediately knew and instantly teared up as well.”
Breawna’s future is incredibly bright. She has excelled in everything she attempts, and college should be no different.
“After I get my bachelors degree, I plan on attending medical school. While I do not have my heart set on a specialty, I am interested in either being a physician or an oncologist. My life has truly been touched by people in both of these professions, and, after so much support from my community, I would love to come back to Florida and practice to give back in times of need. Along with medicine, I plan on studying agriscience. I have had a large focus on sustainable and regenerative agriculture in high school. I plan on using this to educate communities about agricultural practices that can lower food and nutritional deficiencies, especially in urban areas,” Smith said.
“Being a first generation university student, what helped me the most was guidance from teachers and staff at QI. My counselors told me exactly what to do when I sat in their office and told them I wanted to start applying to college,” Smith added. “My teachers and principal all wrote amazing letters of recommendation when I asked and offered nothing but support. Before the application process starts though, I think what is most important is being involved in the community. One of the women I volunteer with had a conversation with me about my college plans, and when I told her I wanted to apply to Cornell, she invited me to listen to a presentation by her friend that was invited to graduate school at Cornell and even put us in contact. Being involved also enriched my resume, creating opportunities such as public speaking and various leadership roles. While there were activities that I consistently did, such as soccer and Future Farmers of America, I also tried a lot of new things through the years. I believe that something is to be said about dedication, but also versatility and the willingness to learn and try something new.”
As all of the seniors at QI Roberts receive acceptance letters they place stickers on their shield displayed in the front office. This year the class of 2022 has several firsts, and a first Ivy League University sticker has set a new mark for the future of the school!
“We push the idea of Excellence in All Endeavors at QI- being your best in everything you do. Breawna is another great example of that,” Theobold said. “We are all incredibly proud of her and the work she has done. It’s amazing that Putnam County has a school that is consistently reaching the highest standards in learning. It’s a testament to the students and staff of this great place.”
