Each year, Cumberland County Schools names a graduating senior at each high school as a Standout Senior. The 17 2023 Standout Seniors are bright, hard-working students who have overcome the odds to graduate and dedicate themselves to serving their community.
To learn more about their plans to attend college, serve in the military or begin their careers, go to www.ccs.k12.nc.us/graduation.
Inayat Zulfiqar will graduate from Cross Creek Early College High School. He answered these questions about his education and his future.
My proudest accomplishment throughout high school is my growth. Coming to Cross Creek as an English as a Second Language student was an uphill battle, especially during my freshman year. I was always falling behind and unable to keep up with my classmates. However, I never remained complacent. Every year, I made an effort to improve. Ultimately, this led to me becoming the student that I am today.
After graduation, I plan to attend Campbell University. I will major in biochemistry with the goal of becoming a physician.
So far, I have accrued about 200 volunteer hours. Cross Creek requires students to volunteer and give back to the community. From my experience, volunteering is a great way to build a deeper connection to your community and grow as an individual.
I was offered the EC Scholars scholarship from East Carolina University; however, Campbell University offered me an Early Acceptance Program for medicine, an invitation to the honors program, and a merit scholarship.
Throughout high school, I have participated in many clubs and organizations, such as SGA, Science Olympiad, and even the Graham Lab at Fayetteville State University, conducting undergraduate research. However, my favorite activity was playing soccer. Cross Creek does not have sports, and the school schedule is not synchronized with traditional high schools. As a result, playing sports is nearly impossible. However, I did manage to play soccer for my home high school during my senior year. It was challenging because I had to balance 17-credit college classes, as well as N.C. School of Science and Math and high school classes during the season. But I am glad that I got the chance to experience that, and I hope to play club soccer or similar while in college.
“Trying to make the most out of every situation” is something I live by. Life is not always generous, and we often face difficult circumstances. However, instead of giving up in those moments, it is crucial to utilize the opportunities presented because they can set you up for future success.
Cumberland County Schools has prepared me for my future by granting me access to unique educational resources and world-class educators. The lessons I learned from them will continue to guide me throughout college and my future career as a physician.
I’ve been blessed with many great mentors, but the person that left a lasting impression on me throughout high school is Ms. Regina Hickle, our school counselor. She was always there for me when I needed her help. I can’t even count how many trips to the office I’ve made this year to seek her assistance. The greatest lesson I learned from her is that if you are willing to put in the effort to achieve a particular goal, your mentors will always stand by your side and help you along the way.
I attended Furlow Charter School in Americus, Georgia.
