We’re proud to spotlight Isaiah, a senior at Arrupe Jesuit High School whose initiative, academic drive, and thoughtful self-awareness have made a lasting mark on our community. As the founder of Arrupe’s first-ever student podcast and a standout intern at the Colorado House of Representatives through the Corporate Work Study Program, Isaiah exemplifies the courage to step outside his comfort zone and grow through challenges. This fall, he’ll take that same spirit with him as he begins the next chapter of his journey at Georgetown University.
Q: What’s a moment from your childhood that still shapes how you see the world today?
“There isn’t one moment exactly, but whenever we did standardized testing growing up, I was usually first or second in my grade. That gave me a lot of confidence in myself. I was part of the gifted and talented program and placed in higher-level classes from fourth to eighth grade. At Arrupe, I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of honors classes, it’s where I feel most at home.”
Q: Looking back, what challenge or turning point has defined your path the most?
“My first day at the State Capitol. Watching the energy shift as the building filled up, seeing people so passionate about their work, it really inspired me. Before that, I thought I’d go into a STEM field just because I was good at it. But this experience sparked a new interest for me, one that isn’t in my comfort zone. Talking to people has never been easy for me, but I’ve learned to enjoy that challenge.”
Q: How has your time at Arrupe helped you better understand who you are?
“Arrupe helped me realize how much I struggled to talk with people, especially socially. Over time, I’ve grown in that area, especially professionally. It’s something I’m continuing to work on, and being at Arrupe has helped me face that honestly.”
Q: Who or what has been a constant source of strength or inspiration in your life?
“My biggest source of strength has always been myself. I don’t think that’s a bad thing, you can’t expect anyone to support you more than you support yourself. But my parents are a close second. They gave me that sense of confidence and always told me to aim high because I’m capable of getting there.”
Q: If you could describe Arrupe in one word, what would it be?
“Uniform. From the dress code to the Grad at Grad values to the 100% college acceptance rate, Arrupe holds a clear standard of success that all students are expected to meet.”
Throughout his four years at Arrupe, Isaiah has pursued both academic excellence and personal growth. Whether he was leading conversations through his podcast, contributing to the legislative process at the Capitol, or simply challenging himself to grow in areas that didn’t come naturally, Isaiah has shown what it means to be resilient, reflective, and self-driven. As he heads to Georgetown this fall, we know he’ll continue to push boundaries, embrace growth, and use his voice to make a difference. We're incredibly proud of all he’s accomplished and excited to see what’s next.
