Brandon , junior Paul ’ 13
Where did you grow up and where did you go to grade / middle school ? I grew up in the Bronx on Pelham Parkway and attended St . Athanasius school .
What was the main reason you decided to attend FP ? Was there a person who helped you get to this decision ? I could not make up my mind on Fordham until after I attended the HAP program . After meeting the teachers and my future friends , I knew that Fordham would be the only fit for me . My cousin , who also attended Fordham , and my father played a part in convincing me to attend .
What activities / sports did you currently take part in at Fordham Prep ? I played football for two years ( outside linebacker ) and I ran track and field for two years as well ( sprints and hurdles ).
What memorable moments or people from your Fordham Prep experience stick out ? In what ways have you changed in your time at the Prep ? One memory I will never forget is my sophomore retreat . I was able to connect with people I normally wouldn ’ t talk to in school and I remain good friends with them today . I would say Fordham has helped me to see my failures and learn from them .
You are a Moglia Scholar currently attending Fordham Prep . What does this opportunity mean to you and your family ? Mr . Moglia has given my family and me the opportunity of a lifetime , and for that we are eternally grateful .
After graduating from Fordham Prep , where do you want to go and what do you want to do ? I plan to attend the Naval Academy and become a Navy diver .
For a prospective student looking at Fordham Prep , what piece of advice would you give him and why choose Fordham Prep ? As I tell everyone I meet in open houses and recruitment sessions , Fordham Prep is a place for boys who fully dedicate themselves to both their work and their community . All you need to ‘ survive ’ in Fordham is a strong work ethic and to be open to growth .
If you had the opportunity to meet Mr . Moglia what would you say to him ? I would like to tell Mr . Moglia thank you for making my dream come true .
Where did you grow up and where did you go to grade / middle school ? I grew up in Yonkers , NY and attended Paideia School 15 for elementary school and Museum Middle School ( now Riverside High School ) for middle school .
What activities / sports did you currently take part in at Fordham Prep ? I participated in several clubs such as the Asian Society , Studio Art Club , and Computer Club . I also had the privilege of being inducted into the National Honor Society , Societa Onoraria Italica , and the Cum Laude Society .
What memorable moments or people from your Fordham Prep experience stick out ? In what ways have you changed in your time at the Prep ? One that immediately comes to mind is when I went overseas on a EF Tours trip to Paris , Florence , Rome , and Milan organized by Mr . Bozzone . I was able to enjoy the historic sights and sounds , experience the rich culture , and of course , enjoy the great food of different countries . Another was when we stormed the field as the Fordham Prep varsity soccer team won the CHSAA championship game in penalty kicks . I have to thank all of the my teachers and peers for making my FP time so memorable , but special shout outs to Mrs . Estrella , Mrs . Simeone , Ms . Dempsey , Mrs . Zefran , Dr . Lee , Mrs . Salvatorelli , Mrs . Honigman , Mr . Bozzone , Doc Carney , Dr . Gelpi , Mr . Pedro , Mr . DiGiorno , Mr . Distefano , Mr . McNamara , Mr . Curran , Mr . Haag . and Mr . Traendly .
You were a Moglia Scholar during your time at Fordham Prep . What did that opportunity mean to you and your family ? Being a Moglia Scholar was an honor and privilege . It meant so much to my family in the aftermath of the Great Recession , where we fell on some difficult financial times . It allowed me to worry just a little less and focus on my studies .
For a prospective family looking at Fordham Prep , what piece of advice would you give them as to why choose Fordham Prep for their son ? How did you change from your first year to the last at the Prep ? What lessons did you take from the Prep that helped you succeed in college , professionally , and personally ? I would say Fordham Prep is more than a high school , but it is a fraternity and brotherhood . Not only will you receive a high level of education and join a distinguished alumni base , but you will learn what it means to be a man for others and care for more than just yourself . As you spend time in the halls of FP , you change your perspective from focusing on your own interests and shift to ones of empathy , sympathy , and compassion . I find the most important lesson that has stuck with me from The Prep is when you put others first in love , you gain more in all facets of life .
If you had the opportunity to meet Mr . Moglia what would you say to him ? Simply , I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and thanks for all that he has meant to the Fordham Prep community , my family , and me . I would not be where I am today without his generosity and understanding .
SPRING 2021 17