William Abraham Tarpeh

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“My experience as a Young Scholar has been full of opportunities and personal growth. Through both financial support and personal development, I have become a much more successful, goal-oriented, and well-rounded person. Above all, I have been able to identify and pursue my passions.”

  • Program: 2008 College Scholarship Recipient
  • Resides: Stanford, CA
  • Hometown: Alexandria, VA
  • Age: 18

Biography

HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUNG SCHOLAR EXPERIENCE: William was able to take a close look at chemical engineering research during the University of Connecticut Mentor Connection, an experience that set him on his current academic and career path. As part of LearnServe Ethiopia, William taught English and math in that country and helped construct a pipe from a well to a water source. “The two weeks I spent in Ethiopia changed my life. I hope to return there in the summers between my college years to serve as a teacher.”
PROFILE: Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, William grew up in Connecticut until age five. When his parents divorced, his mother moved him and his two siblings to Alexandria, Virginia. Watching his mother work long hours during the day and then on her Masters degree at night instilled a desire for self-improvement and a strong work ethic. William excelled academically at Thomas Jefferson High School, where he also participated in many volunteer activities and held leadership positions. “Now, I measure success by leaving more than I started with; by improving things. I take on responsibility with that desire, rather than adding activities to a list.”
INSPIRATION: “My mother has inspired me to always work hard towards my goals even when circumstances are against me.”
ASPIRATION: William plans to pursue a career as a chemical engineer.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: William has been a volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America since 2000. He is a tutor with the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society.
ACCOLADES: William is a National Achievement Semifinalist, National Merit Scholarship Commended Student, and AP Scholar with Distinction. He was inducted into the National Honor Society’s Challenger Chapter.
INTERESTING FACT: William appeared on Jeopardy! Kids at age 12. He plays the cello and alto saxophone and enjoys crossword puzzles.

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