Scholar: Zachary Walker

Hello. I am a sophomore majoring in biology and a recipient of the Distinguished Scholars Award.

During my senior year at Bethel High School in Hampton, Virginia I had trouble deciding what college I wanted to go to. At the beginning of the year my focus was mainly on what rank I was in my graduating class. I ended junior year as number one, but going into my senior year I discovered that I was bumped down to rank number three. My focus was on taking the classes that would increase my GPA, but also trying to stand out during the college application process. The classes I took during my senior year were Honors Government, AP English 12, Psychology, Statistics, Honors Physics, Spanish IV, and Band. Senior year was mainly a breeze. I finished AP Calculus (AB) the year before, and I was also done with all the major sciences offered at my school. Also, I already finished taking my SAT the year before. SAT Prep was one the courses I took during junior year in preparation for the SAT. My score was decent, but I did regret not getting in the bracket range for the number one school of my choice.

My dream school was Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. Florida A&M University was presented to me by my father one night when I was web searching for schools. I was confused, because I really haven't heard much about the school. However, I did know that they did have a very famous band known as the "Marching 100". My dad thought that since I loved music so much, and FAMU is known for their music it was a perfect match. Therefore, I applied immediately. I also applied to Howard University and Virginia Commonwealth University.

Soon thereafter FAMU sent me my acceptance letter, and also a standard music packet for the "Marching 100". Howard University offered me an alumni based scholarship, which was almost a full-ride. On the other hand, FAMU offered me the full tuition and fees scholarship. Since I really had no interest in Howard University, and I began to love the "Marching 100", I decided FAMU was the school for me.

Since my stay at FAMU, I have come to become accustomed to its culture. I have become a part of the incomparable "Marching 100", and also pledged Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity. I have performed at the 2010 Super Bowl in Miami, Florida; Honda Battle of the Bands; the Florida Football Classic; and the Atlanta Classic. Being a member of the Marching 100 has allowed me to travel and meet people from across the United States.

I transferred in fifteen credit hours in the social sciences, Spanish, Calculus and Physics. During my matriculation, I have maintained a 3.94. I am Biology major and my goal is to become Geneticist for the Center of Disease Control (CDC). FAMU has taught me how to manage my time wisely. As you can imagine taking courses such as Organic Chemistry, Biology, Ecology and practicing four to five hours per day with the Marching 100 requires great time management skills. However, the exceptional professors have helped me excel, and feel as if I am able to accomplish anything I put my mind to. Being in the honors program and meeting other members on scholarship has established what I wish to believe life-long bonds. In this type of career I know I will meet a wide range of people and cultures, which is why having foreign teachers, classes, and colleagues will help me adjust to these settings. Thanks to the Distinguished Scholars Award FAMU has given me, money has never been a main concern for me at school. As a result, I advise any scholarly student to attend FAMU, because the lessons, educations, and fellowships found at the illustrious school are everlasting and influential.