St. Paul senior Andrew loves music and math. He has spent the past few years shaping a unique identity that blends academics, creativity, and curiosity. This fall, he’ll take that identity with him to Northwestern University, where he plans to study mathematics-related fields such as statistics or data science and check out the hip hop scene during a bit of free time.
When asked to talk about himself, the first thing Andrew mentions is music. He loves to listen to and create music. He composes and distributes his hip hop music on platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify.
Inspired by artists like Kendrick Lamar, Andrew is drawn to hip-hop’s ability to address real-world issues. He uses his studies in economics to make a connection with his love for music, exploring themes like social inequality, identity, and human experience.
The connection between academics and real-world situations became a central part of his college application.
His college essay combined his work as a music producer with his interest in social issues and economics, creating a narrative that stood out.
“Everyone listens to hip-hop,” he explains, “but not everyone engages with it deeply.”
Authenticity and a unique perspective paid off. Andrew was accepted to six universities, including Case Western Reserve University, Penn State, and Texas A&M University, but his top choice was always Northwestern. He has been dreaming of attending Northwestern and moving to Chicago.
The moment he found out he was accepted is one he’ll never forget. While traveling in Da Lat, Vietnam, his mother woke him up to check his application portal. Confetti filled the screen, and just like that, his dream became real.
Andrew’s academic achievements are just as impressive as his creative ones. Over the course of high school, he took an impressive amount of Advanced Placement tests. He self-studied for AP Microeconomics, AP Macroeconomics, AP Statistics, AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, and AP Physics C: Mechanics, and joined classes at St. Paul for AP Calculus BC, AP Physics 1, and AP Chemistry.
He self-studied for several of the exams, developing a disciplined approach to learning. His strategy was simple but effective: practice consistently, identify weaknesses, and review relentlessly.
By the time he graduates, Andrew expects to enter university with 9 – 10 college credits already completed.
When asked, he admits that accomplishing so many achievements was stressful. His junior year in particular was overwhelming. Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social life pushed him to his limits. Perseverance was key, he got through it, though even now he says he’s not quite sure how he did it all.
Beyond academics, Andrew found meaningful ways to contribute to the school community. He worked closely with elementary students, assisting with fencing activities and helping produce school performances like concerts and showcases.
These experiences taught him leadership in a hands-on way, not by authority, but through patience, trust, and connection.
He also participated in a wide range of clubs, including music, engineering, and even competed internationally in math competitions. Beyond the Mathletes and Nexus Math Club, his independent involvement in the American Mathematics Competitions reflect his desire to challenge himself.
Andrew credits much of his growth to the teachers at St. Paul. In particular, he highlights the impact of his AP Literature teacher, Mr. Sean, who helped him develop his writing skills through a one-on-one conference.
Starting with scattered ideas, Andrew learned how to build structured, compelling essays, a skill that not only improved his academic performance but also strengthened his college applications.
“That support made a huge difference,” he says.
As Andrew prepares to move to Chicago, he’s excited for what’s ahead, but also reflective about what he’ll leave behind.
At St. Paul, he built relationships with teachers, mentored younger students, and developed his character.
In college, he knows things will be different. Building connections may be harder, and the environment more demanding. But he’s ready for that challenge.
“Build your own story, that’s what makes you unique.”
Advice for Future Students
For younger students with big goals, Andrew offers clear advice:
Focus on more than just test scores.
While exams like the SAT and APs are important, what truly sets students apart are their passions and how they express them. Whether it’s music, research, or community involvement, finding a genuine interest and pursuing it deeply can make all the difference.
Andrew shows us that perseverance and challenges can lead to success. Staying true to what matters to you is what makes it worthwhile and can make you stand out when you want to get noticed. He balances humility and service to others while commanding confidence in areas he is passionate about.
Congratulations, Andrew! Good luck in Chicago, we are so excited for you.
