Ramatou Njoya

Effective Student committed to learning, developing skills in communications and team contribution. Self-directed and energetic with superior performance in both autonomous or collaborative environments working independently and collaborating with others on group projects.

• Virtual Tutoring ~ Pass the Torch (Summer of 2021), Tutor, Aided younger students aged 5-12 in numerous subjects, i.e French, Science, English, Math
• Bronx Gardens Rehabilitation Center, Volunteer, Worked with nurses and elder patients by providing entertainment and helping where necessary

• Debate, 2019, Present, Contributor, Participated in multiple JV debates & won them, moved to varsity debate Vice President; helped members better their skills, qualified for JV & Varsity invitationals, welcomed prospective debaters, introduced Public Forum debate to the club
• Black Affinity, 2019, Present, Contributor, Performed in the all-school Black History month assembly and spoke CO-Leader; fostered a safe and welcoming space for black students on campus, planned and oversaw Spin Art booth on behalf of Black Affinity for Spring Carnival
• D-E Admissions Office, 2019, Present, Tour Guide, Selected to lead prospective students and families on campus tours. Represent student body at Open House Events. Serve as an ambassador for admitted students during school visit days.

I've been speaking up for others since I learned to speak for myself. My passion for advocacy and my abhorrence of unjust have been the main motivators and values that I hold dear to me, take with me, and implement in all work that I do.

Growing up, I never advocated for myself, so seeing someone else do it , let alone a teacher, was incredibly foreign. To be collectivized with other ambitious students meant that I had to want more for myself just as they want for themselves. Thus commenced my journey of self-advocacy, what I call my mini rebellion; not only from the education I received that told me to be happy with where I was, but against the fear that governed my life prior to that. Phrases like “I don’t know”, and “I’m not sure” were no longer in my vocabulary. At 10 years old, I learned what it meant to stand up and want more for yourself.

I understand what it's like to feel unheard which is why I carry these values with me.