The RISE Postsecondary Success team partners with high schools to ensure all students graduate on time and complete milestones for their identified postsecondary plans. In the coming weeks, we will celebrate the accomplishments of graduating seniors in our Core Network schools. Their dedication, hard work, and resilience have led them to this important goal. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
What is your plan after you graduate from high school?
Fatima: I’ll be attending Columbia University in the fall. My intended major is Chemical Engineering, and I hope to continue my independent research on Enzymatic Recycling of Polyethylene Terephthalate.
Joel: I will be attending the Meriden Aviation Center & ATP Flight School.
What support did you receive to help you form your postsecondary plan?
Fatima: I received tremendous support from kind teachers like Mrs. Gajecki and Mrs. Cheney, who always believed in me and reminded me that I was capable. My counselor, Mrs. Ojeda, helped me stay organized and supported me through some of my hardest challenges. Programs like GEAR UP and Middletown Aerospace opened my eyes to opportunities I didn’t even know existed and made me believe I could achieve anything I set my mind to. But more than anything, my parents and siblings were with me every step of the way—especially my sister, Naima Islam, who always found ways to make me laugh and inspired me to keep chasing my dreams, no matter what.
Joel: I received support from many people, who I would like to thank: Mrs. DeJesus, Mr. Marinelli, Ms. Scarfo, and many others, for always being there and for finding a way to help me set up for my future and throughout high school.
What advice would you give to a rising senior?
Fatima: I would advise rising seniors to always be open to making connections and stepping outside their comfort zones. Take advantage of all the opportunities around you, even the ones that feel small at first. Scholarship fairs and college/career readiness workshops are a great place to start. I can’t stress enough how important it is to keep moving forward. No matter the obstacles—whether financial or personal—know that there will always be people who want to see you succeed, and that you’re more than capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and always remember to be proud of how far you’ve come.
Make the most of your summers—immerse yourself in your community, volunteer, and work hard. Apply to college readiness programs like Upward Bound, Matchlighters, or QuestBridge, or passion-based ones like UConn Explore or Cornell CURIE. These experiences and resources are priceless and will inspire you to dream bigger. Most importantly, always have faith in yourself and keep moving forward.
Joel: Never think that it’s too late. Seek the help you need and connect with your teachers and staff (Platt’s staff is amazing!)
What are you most proud of, as you look back on your high school experience?
Fatima: I’m most proud that no matter what happened, I kept chasing after my dream. Throughout high school, I was able to explore my passion for STEM and build friendships I know I’ll cherish forever. I’m proud that, alongside academic success, my high school experience was filled with laughter and the most precious memories. I had a chance to grow closer to my community and be a part of something bigger than myself. Balancing work, school, and personal life can be incredibly challenging, and I’m proud of myself—and anyone else—who chose to show up instead of give up.
Joel: I am most proud of finally figuring out my vision for after high school.
What are you most looking forward to, as you look ahead to the future?
Fatima: I’m looking forward to attending my dream school and pursuing a career that I’m passionate about. I’m excited to grow both as a person and a student, and to be a role model for my little brother. I hope to someday give back to the incredible community that supported me through every step. More than anything, I can’t wait to keep learning and someday make a difference in the lives of others, just like others did for me.
Joel: Becoming a professional airline pilot.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Fatima: I am so grateful for the amazing people and opportunities that helped me. For as long as I can remember, my dream was to pursue higher education. I couldn’t have done it without the love and support from my community, mentors, and family.
Joel: First and foremost, I want to thank God for letting me accomplish all of this. Second, I would want to thank my beautiful Mother–she is the light of my life and my stronghold–along with the staff of Platt High School for helping me pave the way for my future and through high school.
Follow along with us on LinkedIn and Facebook as we continue to celebrate our amazing seniors!