Leo Class of 2027
Some responses may be paraphrased for clarity.
Leo is a residential junior (Class of 2027) from Christchurch, New Zealand. When he discovered the Academy, he decided to attend because of its approach to high ability education.
What do you like most about being a residential student?
“The Indiana Academy has something very unique, and that it has access to Ball State University’s campus. Because I am residential, I can go on morning walks around the university campus before class and also enjoy staying at the library and studying with friends until late at night. Furthermore, I am also given a generous meal credit which I can spend on anything from beef brisket at North Dining to Japanese sushi or ramen at Woodworth Dining.”
Leo remains busy as an athlete, specifically kendo, a Japanese martial art, and table tennis. He serves as the vice president for the Technology Student Association (TSA) and is the International Student Representative in the Indiana Academy’s Student Government.
What is your greatest memory from the Academy so far?
“My greatest memory was the Acadathon. Acadathon is a week-long event where the whole school is divided into four groups and participates in events like pool tournaments or dodgeball to earn points for their team. I may be a bit biased because my team won, but that was definitely one of the highlights of this year.”
The Academy has prepared Leo for the level of freedom he will experience in college while still having additional safety protocols in place. Leo has been able to learn to navigate university life while being in a more accommodating and supportive environment. Being connected to Ball State University has also allowed him to interact with university professors, take additional dual credits, and take classes for full college credit.
How is the Academy preparing you for life after high school?
“The Academy is preparing me for life by offering me a very large degree of freedom that hovers on the border between university and high school. It has also offered me a large number of opportunities through Ball State University. This includes additional dual credits, interactions with Ball State professors, and also, actual university courses.”
During his senior year, Leo hopes to continue taking advantage of the resources available at the Academy and Ball State University. He intends to take more classes, interact with more faculty, and is interested in doing research either in mathematics, computer science, or physics.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in applying to the Academy?
“Just apply and attend. Some people might think that they’re not right for this school, but they’re here for a reason. This is a great opportunity. Courses and everything are up to you. The Academy offers a high ceiling to what you do, but you don’t always have to go as far.”
After graduating, Leo is planning to study engineering or computer science at Purdue University.