Quinn Curry '17 Recruiting Profile

The community of East Garfield Park, Chicago, is known for many things. It is renowned for high school basketball, where athletes take pride in grit, determination, teamwork, and skill. East Garfield Park has serious struggles-- 40% of households are below the poverty level, 16.5% of residents are unemployed and 27% of the adult residents have not earned a high school diploma. I attend one of the best educational facilities in the city right in the heart of the community of East Garfield Park, George Westinghouse College Prep.  At this school students not only learn how to succeed in the classroom but also how to impact the community outside because it is in such need of youth leadership.

On May 4, 2016 I received an award from the East Garfield Youth Collaborative for Peer Leadership amongst thousands of students who attend schools, nonprofits, and churches in the community. I received this award because my social capital allows me to lead others to do what's right. I have earned social capital because of my positive spirit, my friendly nature, and my position on the varsity basketball team.  I am able to showcase my leadership ability not only in the community but also on the basketball court. I am able to do this because in basketball, athletes are continually facing adversity. When this happens you need leaders to help your team pull through the storm. Being known as a leader has helped me transition into adulthood because leadership is one of society's most valuable assets. They teach young children that they will grow up to be leaders. This means that leadership is the quality of an adult. When you start to show this, that means you are becoming one.  

Being recognized formally as a leader at the Garfield Park Youth Awards solidified in my heart and mind that I am seen as a community leader and have a great responsibility because of it.  I want to continue to grow in my leadership in order to bring about positive changes in my community.