AFRICA | A brilliant young girl, Jordan Wallican, has achieved an extraordinary academic feat after emerging as the overall best-graduating student of West High School, Waterloo (USA).
Her outstanding performance earned her the prestigious valedictorian title—and a full-ride scholarship to Harvard University, her dream institution since childhood.
Jordan's Story and How She Did It
Jordan’s journey into academic excellence began long before high school. She recalled owning a Harvard T-shirt as a young girl and dreaming of studying at the Ivy League institution.
Growing up in Waterloo, she set clear goals early: to graduate at the top of her class, attend a top 10 university, and use education as a tool for impact.
To strengthen her academic track, she enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, a rigorous two-year curriculum known globally for grooming high-achieving students.
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Determined to turn her dream into reality, Jordan applied to 31 universities through the Common App and QuestBridge. The process was tough as she had to balance IB coursework, extracurricular activities, and multiple essays, but she persisted.
Her efforts paid off. Jordan received 24 acceptances out of 31 applications, offers from Harvard University, Brown University, Williams College, and several top-ranked schools
She was also selected as a recipient of the highly competitive Gates Scholarship, which covers all remaining college costs for exceptional low-income minority students
Jordan also took college tours across New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C., evaluating financial aid, campus feel, and opportunities. But Harvard remained her first love.
After reviewing all her options and considering her full-ride award, Jordan officially chose Harvard University, fulfilling her long-held dream.
She also explained that her college essay, which focused on community service, played a significant role. Jordan volunteers regularly at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, a nursing home, her church, and several youth service organizations.
Her leadership roles include President of the National Honor Society. Vice President, Tri-M Music Honor Society and Service Officer, Teen Trust (Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa)
Her dedication to serving others strengthened her applications and demonstrated her capacity to be a change agent—something top universities actively seek.
Looking ahead, Jordan plans to major in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, with a minor in African-American Studies at Harvard. Long term, she hopes to start a nonprofit organization or become a college professor, empowering the next generation
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