Nigerian-born Tobechukwu Phillips shatters American school’s 125-year academic history
A Nigerian - born teenager , Tobechukwu Phillips has shattered the 125 academic history of her high school in Texas , US .
Phillips , a student of Alvin High School boasted a 6 . 9 GPA , after she earned A’ s throughout her stay in the school . She emerged the first Black valedictorian in the school ’ s history .
Alvin High School was originally established in 1894 . African- American students were allowed to join the school in 1965.
Speaking to Because of Them We Can, Phillips said , “ Maintaining the highest GPA in my class is a difficult task . It truly takes time management but more importantly acknowledging what you do it for. I know that I am no longer just representing myself . ”
Phillips had a word of advice for other students . She said , “ My biggest advice to other scholars of colour is to truly adopt the mindset of Rosa Parks — ‘ No . ’ Do not conform to the stereotypes that have held us under thumbs for so long , ” she explained. “ Do not be discouraged when someone speaks out against you , simply allow what they say to fuel your fire . But more than anything , do not remain tight -lipped . Stand up for what you believe in and take it upon yourself to be the change you ’ ve always wanted. Say ‘ No’ to the ways of the world and stick out. ”
Phillips will attend the Nursing School at the University of Texas on full scholarship later in the year . Her plan is to one day own her own clinic as a pediatric nurse practitioner .
Phillips , a student of Alvin High School boasted a 6 . 9 GPA , after she earned A’ s throughout her stay in the school . She emerged the first Black valedictorian in the school ’ s history .
Alvin High School was originally established in 1894 . African- American students were allowed to join the school in 1965.
Speaking to Because of Them We Can, Phillips said , “ Maintaining the highest GPA in my class is a difficult task . It truly takes time management but more importantly acknowledging what you do it for. I know that I am no longer just representing myself . ”
Phillips had a word of advice for other students . She said , “ My biggest advice to other scholars of colour is to truly adopt the mindset of Rosa Parks — ‘ No . ’ Do not conform to the stereotypes that have held us under thumbs for so long , ” she explained. “ Do not be discouraged when someone speaks out against you , simply allow what they say to fuel your fire . But more than anything , do not remain tight -lipped . Stand up for what you believe in and take it upon yourself to be the change you ’ ve always wanted. Say ‘ No’ to the ways of the world and stick out. ”
Phillips will attend the Nursing School at the University of Texas on full scholarship later in the year . Her plan is to one day own her own clinic as a pediatric nurse practitioner .
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