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Andrew Alvarez

Biography

Highlights of Young Scholar Experience: Andrew Alvarez said his life as a Young Scholar is basically one big highlight reel.  “The Foundation has enabled me to explore and further my interests to a degree beyond that which would have otherwise been possible.” The Michigan native’s been able to attend a program on Civics and American History in Washington, DC sponsored by Ashland University and has taken college-level courses at nearby Hillsdale College.  An avid long-distance runner, he was also able to attend a “running camp” operated by famed American track star (and former Congressman) Jim Ryun. Those are just a few of the snippets on the highlight reel – there were also programs around the country that Andrew participated in involving law, medicine, math and technology.

Profile:  Every year at every high school across America, there’s always one or two students that stand out ... faculty, coaches, staff and fellow students know that this particular senior is going to do great things.  At Michigan’s Hillsdale Academy, Andrew Alvarez is that student.  It’s a given because he already has done great things – in the classroom, on the athletic fields, and in his community.  Just, one percentage point shy of a perfect 4.0 GPA, Andrew has also shined as a track star and still volunteers with various civic and church organizations. His life centers around his deep religious beliefs. Every class, every conversation, every act of charity and every time he laces up his track cleats, Andrew is on a mission.  Similar to the wonderful true story of Scottish track legend Eric Liddell, the Olympic Champion profiled in the movie “Chariots of Fire”, who ran each race with God in his heart, Andrew also runs with a purpose . . . a purpose more than just to be faster than his competitors.  Andrew says it best:  “Running has become for me a spiritual and mental exercise, as much as a physical one.”

Inspiration:  Most importantly, Andrew’s faith is his inspiration.  At Hillsdale Academy, a teacher he prefers not to name personally has been his shepherd both academically and on the athletic fields. 

Aspiration: His current ambitions have not yet taken form.  “I have a broad range of interests and look forward to further exploration in college.”

Making a Difference:  As one of his mentors said of Andrew: “He leads by example, but does not seek out leadership positions for their own sake or as a validation of his popularity.”  In addition to the hundreds of hours of community and church service he puts in, Andrew is most proud of the difference he made as captain of the Hillsdale Academy cross country team.  “We lacked initiative and motivation,” he recalled. “Leading by example I organized running throughout the year and focused on quality and consistency in our training.”  At least partially as a result of his efforts, the individual and team results improved each year.

Accolades:  Captain of high school cross country team; Quiz Bowl team member; Outstanding Achievement in Advanced Latin, Biology, and Physics; Headmaster’s List (Honor Roll) at Hillsdale Academy; Hillsdale Student of the Month;

Interesting Fact: Andrew may have trouble distinguishing decorations during the Christmas season because he is red-green colorblind. He also has an older brother who is a Cooke Scholar.

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