AFRICA | A brilliant young boy emerges US high school’s valedictorian, earns acceptance from Yale University.
A brilliant young boy named Alexander Shadman has been named valedictorian of North Branford High School’s (NBHS) Class of 2023.
His outstanding academic achievements have earned him acceptance to Yale University, marking a significant milestone in his educational journey.
Initially, Alexander had planned to follow in the footsteps of his sister, Caroline Shadman, who was the valedictorian of NBHS’s Class of 2021 and continued her studies at University of Connecticut.
Join any of these WhatsApp Groups to receive more good news on WhatsApp
“I was intending to follow Caroline’s path to UConn because it was something I grew to love, and I had met so many professors there,” Alexander said.
“But a lot of the people around me suggested that I apply to Yale. After I was accepted, I did a lot more research and visited, and then it became evident that this was where I belonged,” he added.
During his time at North Branford Public Schools, Alexander excelled in academics while nurturing his passion for theatre and music.
He plans to major in theatre at Yale University but appreciates the flexibility of the program, which allows students to declare their major by the end of their sophomore year.
“Theatre is my intended path, and my plan is to major in theatre at Yale. But what’s great about their program is that you don’t have to commit to a program until the end of your sophomore year,” he said.
Alexander’s musical talents are equally impressive. He is an award-winning jazz saxophonist, playing both alto and soprano sax.
He was a key member of the East Haven High School/NBHS Co-op competition band, where he served as drum major, a role that allowed him to showcase both his conducting skills and his flair for theatrical performance.
He also completed three dual-enrollment college introductory courses through UConn and Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU).
Alexander held numerous leadership positions at NBHS, serving as vice president of the Spanish Honor Society, secretary of the National Honor Society, senior editor of the Kaleidoscope literary magazine, and vice president of the Drama Club.
As a member of Yale University’s Class of 2027, Alexander is eager to continue striving for excellence in a highly competitive environment.
“My experience at North Branford will be different from Yale, but many of my closest friends in high school were also my competitors. That pushed me to achieve my best, and I’m looking forward to continuing that journey at Yale,” he said.
Receive Scholarship Updates through our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter: @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region





