Marwan Abdelsamie

A selective leadership development program at Saint Joseph’s University focused on ethical leadership, service, and personal growth. The program emphasizes self-awareness, humility, and values-driven decision-making through mentorship, workshops, and community engagement. Participants develop practical leadership skills while learning how to create meaningful impact within organizations and communities.

First year of college: Biweekly check-ins, on-campus visits, and winter and summer consultations

Spring and summer of 12th grade: college seminar, summer institute, welcome meeting, and advisor consultation

12th grade: Postsecondary pathways – application, selection, and placement

Selected to join a competitive 4-day college admissions program for rising seniors, focused on college application strategy, personal statement writing, and college readiness. Participated in workshops led by college admissions officers, expert volunteers, and the College Essay Guy. Completed a polished college personal statement, received individualized writing support, and engaged with college representatives during the closing fair.

11th grade: Postsecondary pathways – pathway plan

10th grade: Pathways – career exposure, fit, and research

A Fellow in Launchpad, a competitive tech workforce development program by Building 21. After completing Stage 1 in Spring 2025, I was selected for Lightspeed, an accelerated summer track designed to fast-track students into Launchpad’s LiftOff phase. Through Lightspeed, I’m diving deep into Python programming, preparing for the PCEP certification, completing real-world coding challenges, and building Raspberry Pi projects. I’m also participating in Ignite, a professional development track that includes a pitch competition—where we develop and present tech solutions to real-world problems. Launchpad equips students from underrepresented communities to launch high-growth tech careers—and I’m proud to be part of that mission.

Completed a 6-week, college-level computer science enrichment program focused on Arduino-based robotics, Java programming, and design thinking. Collaborated in a team of four to build a data analytics tool using Java as a final project, applying advanced STEM concepts to solve real-world challenges. Concluded the program by presenting our application to a live audience in an auditorium.