(SILVA HEALTH MAGNET – June 29, 2022) — Recent Silva grad Richelle Ntumy earned a prestigious U.S. Military Academy appointment at West Point and is ready for the academic and physical challenge that lies ahead. The future neurosurgeon's well-rounded education at Silva included earning numerous accolades for leading more than 140 cadets as Battalion Commander. She is the next student to be featured in Community Engagement's Student Spotlight.

EPISD: What made you want to go to the U.S. Military Academy West Point?

Richelle Ntumy: I wanted to go to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point because I wanted to continue to participate in something bigger than myself, explore commitment, teamwork, and my duty to serve others. I believe that West Point develops character and sets the foundation for one to build upon their academic, physical, military and character skills. I would be able to receive a unique educational experience while giving back to my community and nation.

 

EPISD: What does it mean for you to go to West Point?

RN: West Point is a university that I have dreamed of attending for a very long time to be able to have the opportunity to serve my nation. I behold the values of duty, honor, and country – that is why it means a lot for me to go.

 

EPISD: What do you plan to study and how will West Point help you reach your career goals?

RN: I plan to study life sciences and eventually become a neurosurgeon. I believe West Point will help me reach my career goals by not only providing me with a prestigious education, but cultivate me to become a well-rounded leader.

 

EPISD: What other top scholarships have you received?

RN: I received the three-year Army National ROTC Scholarship and the Texas Tech Freshman Merit Scholarship.

 

EPISD: What are your honors and achievements in high school? 

RN: My honors and achievements in high school include: AP Scholar with Honors, National African American Recognition Program for Excellence in Academic Achievement, 1^st Place in the District Academic Decathlon Tournament Honors Speech Category, 1^st Place Lincoln-Douglas Debate at District Level, and 1^st Place in the Prepared Speaking Category for Area 4 HOSA Regional Tournament.

 

EPISD: Tell us about what you studied at Silva. How has Silva helped you reach your college readiness goals?

RN: At Silva, I studied health science principles and theories, and classes like anatomy & physiology, biology, and AP psychology. Silva has helped me reach my college readiness goals by providing advanced core subject classes to challenge and expose me to college-level assignments and rigor.

 

EPISD: What other extracurricular activities are you involved in?

RN: I am involved in Academic Decathlon, High Q, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Mu Alpha Theta, Club 365, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Silva Ambassadors and class committee.

 

EPISD: Tell us about your accomplishments at Silva.

RN: At Silva, I graduated in the top 10 percent, served as the Battalion Commander of over 140 cadets, and earned awards for Meritorious Service, Excellent Staff Performance, Distinguished Cadet Award for Academic Excellence, the Purple Heart Award for Leadership, and the Superior Junior Cadet Decoration Award.

 

EPISD: What have you been doing outside of school activities?

RN: Outside of school activities, I work out, read, paint, write poetry, and volunteer in my community.

 

EPISD: What advice would you give students interested in going to West Point?

RN: The advice I would give students interested in going to West Point is to apply as early as possible, be informed about the application process, work hard in school, be disciplined, and be physically fit.

 

EPISD: Anything you’d like to add?

RN: I would like to thank God for guidance and strength, and the support and care I received from my family, teachers, and friends.