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