Written by: Pascale Gibbs, Editor in Training
THORPE: Senior Ronald Thorpe recounts his high school memories and begins his new chapter of life.
The Renaissance man. This title is used to describe those who are talented in every area – mostly including music, smarts, and physical talent. This title cannot be awarded to many, but it can definitely be applied to Ronald Thorpe. Thorpe is involved on Poly’s campus in a myriad of ways – his favorites being president of the physics club and playing in the Orchestra. Furthermore, he competes in throwing shotput and discus. During his time spent on campus, Thorpe has explored so many areas and created lifelong memories in each one.
Thorpe’s first steps on campus were like most; scared. A wide-eyed 14 year old that was unknowing of the memories of which to come. Fast forward to the first day of his senior year, Thorpe was excited, yet “sadder than ever,” as he knew that “every day would be the last day of his Poly journey.” Throughout his four-year journey, Thorpe has made many fond memories, his favorite being the senior year homecoming week. He loved every moment ranging from float building to the big football game. Additionally, his zero period orchestra class contributed some of his most sentimental memories. His group gave him “his closest friends and his fondest memories,” one such thing that made his experience at Poly all the better.
Though Thorpe describes that “his cringiest Poly moment has to be his entire freshman year with no further explanation needed,” he kept motivated through every sharp or unexpected turn. Keeping motivated in high school can be exceedingly difficult, but Thorpe, being the Renaissance man that he is, pushed through. “I have continued to carry my motivation through my desire to pursue my passions,” Thorpe describes. His dream to pursue his career consists of high school as the first stepping stone, allowing him to stay up to par with his motivations and dreams.
Thorpe’s immense passion and hard work has driven him to pursue Astrophysics along with a minor in Political Science. Describing why he chose this major, Thorpe says “I believe that the human species are natural born explorers, as we have explored the lands and the seas. Our next frontier is the stars and I would like to be a part of that human endeavor.” This riveting dedication for the future has led Thorpe to commit to the University of Yale. He recounts that he fell in love with the university as soon as he stepped foot on campus, and almost immediately knew that he wanted to go there. In the words of this passion-driven scholar, “go bulldogs!!!!” This achievement is beyond impressive, and Thorpe worked hard for every part of it. Thorpe advises those on a similar path to his own to “take every single opportunity you can get. As a first-generation college student, I tried to utilize every opportunity I could find in order to achieve my aspirations.” You heard the man, get out there and find opportunities!
As Thorpe’s high school years come to an end, his greatly inspiring achievements will be honored and inspirational for many scholars to come. Though he is a deemed Renaissance man, his story is a reminder for anyone (yes, even those who aren’t deemed Renaissance men) that with hard work, passion, and a set goal, anything is possible.