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Hometowns Program Student Spotlights

The journey doesn’t end when the Supreme Court and My Hometowns program does! Our students go on to achieve incredible things in high school, college, and beyond. Whether they’re excelling in academics, leading community projects, or exploring new opportunities, we love keeping up with their successes. Check out what our recent alumni have been up to and how they’re continuing to make an impact!

Renee St., St. Louis ‘23

Over the past summer, I attended my sorority’s Emerging Leaders Conference. I developed skills that helped me get elected as vice president of my sorority! I have been planning events, coordinating with my university, and connecting with women in my sorority from across the country. The skills I have learned and developed in my time in Phi Sigma Sigma have helped me grow as a student and leader in my community. This upcoming summer, I hope to get an internship where I can apply these skills to the legal field.

Another opportunity I had this past summer was studying at Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland. I studied conflict management and learned about the Catholic-Protestant divide. The weeks I spent in Northern Ireland were the highlight of my summer. I made strong friendships, saw historical buildings, and connected with members of the Belfast community. As I continue my studies as a political science and global studies major, I will use my conflict management skills to consider all perspectives.

Cooper L., St. Louis ‘24

This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern within the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals at the Eagleton U.S. Courthouse building, focusing on modernizing community engagement practices and expanding public education resources. Throughout the internship, I created systems for school and civic groups to register for experiences, apply for grants, and send important information, in addition to tracking this data for future use. Specifically, I was able to create an online program to actively better understand how students are growing in their knowledge and views of the judicial system before and after tours. This should allow the Judicial Learning Center the ability to best tailor their experiences to be the most conducive to the education of the public!

Campbell W., Montgomery ‘25 

I recently participated in the Alabama Youth in Government’s Youth Judicial Program for the first time and was honored to receive the Outstanding Attorney award. During the program, we argued both sides of a gross negligence case across four trials, competing against some of the top teams. This experience was both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to enhance my legal knowledge, skills, and teamwork.

Connor O., St. Paul ‘25 

I am just checking in with life updates, not any accomplishments! I have added a second major, Legal Studies, and I have decided to really pursue law school! The program helped me a lot with this decision and convinced me it was the right field to pursue!

Mariola L., Puerto Rico ‘25 

I recently finished applying to college for political science and a pre-law focus, thanks to the inspiration I got from the program!

Joy A., Montgomery ‘25 

For the past few weeks, I was planning a Children’s Charity Concert for my high school, and we had our concert last Sunday! It was hard work but we raised over $500!

Hlixiab L., St. Paul ‘25 

I have started my classes at Saint Paul College as a first-year student there. My major is criminal justice, and I have been learning many new things about how the criminal justice system works. Not only do I get to learn, I get to connect my time at the Supreme Court Hometowns program with the many different things I learn in my criminal justice class.

Lola L., Chattanooga ‘25 

I’m officially a national merit semifinalist! I also received my first college acceptance from Auburn in October. 

Ignacio P., Puerto Rico ‘25

First, I played on the Puerto Rican Beach Volleyball National Team back in July in the Dominican Republic, completing one of my dreams and bucket list items. I was also elected for the Coach’s Award at THE Ohio State University men’s volleyball elite camp. It was a great experience for learning and growth.

I too, just submitted college applications. I sent my top choices, and tomorrow I will submit my last two. Cross fingers with me and manifest with me so I’m accepted!!! I was also just accepted and inducted into the SJS NHS. Lastly, a huge personal accomplishment for me is that I’m serving as my French professor’s teaching assistant for her Introduction to French course. I’ve invested a lot of time in learning French, and the recognition that I’m proficient enough to help educate elates my mindset.

Sullivan M., Montgomery ‘25

I applied early decision at Wofford! I am an AP Scholar with distinction! 

Val M., Puerto Rico ‘25

I graduated in June, and I am now a freshman at URI, studying history.

Silas, STL ‘23

Silas will be attending Mizzou this fall as one of seven Stamps scholars!! He receives a four-year, full cost of attendance scholarship, plus an additional $16,000 enrichment fund to be used during his four years to enhance their studies and academic pursuits. Silas plans to pursue a degree in constitutional democracy when he arrives at Mizzou this fall and hopes to become a lawyer! Congratulations, Silas!

Parishay A., Sacramento ‘25

My sustainability-focused project recently won the Girls Who Code AI & Sustainability Challenge, a national competition recognizing tech solutions to real-world environmental issues. I’m also a finalist for the Women in AI 2025 Rising Star, Young Role Model of the Year Award, which honors young innovators using AI for social good.

Addison J., St. Paul ‘25

I am a 4-H member in Dakota County, Minnesota. My 4-H Citizenship project focused on what I learned at the St Paul Supreme Court and My Hometown program. The project focused on the program, what I learned and promoting the 2026program.  I created an educational display and participated in interview judging. I was awarded a Grand Champion ribbon and a trip to the MN State Fair for my project. 

Hugo S., Puerto Rico ‘25

I have been nominated to the National Hispanic Scholars as well as having certificates of Academic Excellence through my school. Also, I have been a partner with Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico where we plan to restore slowly, but surely around 5 houses throughout Puerto Rico to give to the families. I’ve also represented my school in Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, and Futsal both in the JV and Varsity Level. The Supreme Court and Hometowns Program taught me so much and I couldn’t be more appreciative of it, specially when I take into consideration the amount of future internships and opportunities it will be able to provide me with. So, this summer has taught me a lot for me as a person, and what I truly stand for.

Aarini, Indy ‘24

I started at Indiana University Bloomington! I will be majoring in Biology, and will also be on the Pre-Law track! I’m very excited to begin learning more about what I’m passionate about.

Clara B., STL ‘24

I’ve decided to attend UC Berkeley!!! I will be majoring in Political Science and minoring in Public Policy and Chemistry.

Elizabeth A., STL ‘24

I recently served as Missouri’s only 2025 YMCA National Youth Advocate, and was also chosen to attend the Rising Generations Summit in Washington, D.C.

Vallery M., Puerto Rico ‘25

I am attending the University of Rhode Island in the fall through the Talent Development program. I am majoring in history and am on the pre-law track. Law school is my plan A but my plan B is becoming a history and/or law teacher or professor. 

Gabby, Providence ‘25

This summer I interned at Brown University through the “Prepare RI” program! I have run into many hometown alums during my time and it was great catching up with everyone!

John M., Puerto Rico ‘25

I plan on completing a bachelors in accounting and political science to then complete law school and begin my professional life in Puerto Rico.

Alondra Z., Sacramento ‘25

I will be attending the University of California Davis in the fall and I hope and I am determined to transfer to UC Berkeley to finish my undergraduate studies! I’m a someone who is a daughter to Mexican immigrants parents who wants to follow in the footsteps of the hardworking spirit of my family and culture and wants to dedicate my passion and life to becoming a voice to others and being involved in my community whether big or small.

Grace N., Indianapolis ‘24

I will be going to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University as a Robertson Scholar! This program allows me to pursue majors, engage with extracurricular activities, perform research with faculty, and participate in programs at both schools. I plan on majoring in History at UNC and International Comparative Studies at Duke.

Kimora H., St. Louis ‘24

I am now a Saint Louis University student! I am also a Law Scholar with SLU! This program gives me the opportunity to participate in law-centered seminars and even a pre-admittance into SLU’s Law School. I have also received scholarships from both SLU and my own high school! I got the Vice Presidential’s scholarship! I am planning to double major in International/Global Studies and Political Science on the pre-law track. I’m graduating with honors from three Honors Societies and one volunteer-based club. I have also been recognized by my county for completing 70+ service hours. I would like to say it has not been easy but it was all worth it in the end!

Olivia M.H., St. Louis, ‘25

I’m fully committed to going to the University of Wisconsin Madison attending their Letters and Science Honors Program for Political Science and minoring in History!

Vyra A., Chattanooga ‘24

I have received the Bonners Scholarship and am super excited to join the Bonners Scholars at Berry College next semester! I’ll be double majoring in history and political science. I’m so thrilled to start this new chapter of my life 🙂

Addison G., St. Louis ‘24

I went to state for speech and debate in all four of my events that I competed in. Also, I will be attending American University in the fall! It was my reach school and I’m so excited to go all the way to DC!

McKinna W., Chattanooga ‘25

I am so excited I am going to be interning for Judge Collier over the Summer!

Amanda Clare L., Providence ‘25

I was accepted into the National Honors Society and am busy working on college applications for this coming fall! Excited for the summer since I am traveling to the Philippines in July and attending a conference in Philadelphia at the end of June!

Ethan T., Indianapolis ‘24

I got elected as the Cascade FFA Chapter President and Student Council Senior Class Secretary! I also got into an IU Bloomington Future Educators Program!

Julia O., Indianapolis ‘24

Junior year has been busy, but fun! I joined my school’s mock trail team as a lawyer and we qualified past districts to state. I am in DECA for team decision making business law and ethics. Along with my partner we qualified past districts to win second at state and just recently competed in the international competition in Orlando, Florida.

Gabby O., Providence ‘25

I recently was accepted to participate in a summer-long business internship at Brown University! Following the naturalization ceremony I saw during the Hometowns program, I became fascinated with it! I am so excited to be working there all summer!

Maksim K., Indianapolis ‘24

I got into a competitive legal internship in Aberdeen, Scotland!

Madelyn M., Providence ‘25

I’m an upcoming junior in high school and my aspiration is to be a criminal defense lawyer! The Supreme Court and My Hometown program immensely brightened my education and love for the law. I’m president of the mock trial club at my school and it’s been a great experience. After the Hometowns program I know that my knowledge of the law is going to help me so much in mock trial and I’m very grateful for it!

Yami M., Providence ‘25

I’ve been living in my own fairytale as of late! I got asked to prom and it’s next week! I have been thriving in a school too!

Isabella G., Providence ‘25

Recently decommitted from Rutgers University and committed to CSU San Marcos…Debt free undergrad to save up for law school!

Sowmyan S., St. Louis ‘25 

Recently, I have accomplished something very special to me; I finished a book! The journey that I took was filled with countless hours of dedication and persistence. It was both challenging and incredibly rewarding to see me finishing.

Henry R., St. Louis ‘25 

I got into and will be attending WashU for PreLaw!

Geydi J., St. Louis ‘25 

Hola mi nombre es Geydi y estoy en 10 grado quiero el año que viene empezar a aplicar para becas escolares . Estoy en varios programas en mi escuela como PPI , FZIAM, Lighthouse y en todas estoy tratando de dar lo mejor de mí.


Maryam H., Indianapolis ‘24 

Last summer, my Mock Trial team placed first at the National Judicial Competition! This year will be my first time competing as an attorney. I’ve also been competing in We The People, where we placed 1st in regionals and  3rd in the state.


Kathryn M., Chattanooga ‘24 

I received my civics seal diploma!!! My project for this diploma involved me talking about the hometowns camp!! I have also had a successful dance season so far as we had two first place finishes last week! I got into Georgia Southern University and just applied to their honors college! Just waiting to hear back from UGA before I make my decision about school!


Renee S., St. Louis ‘23

I have joined Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity, and Phi Sigma Sigma at Loyola University Chicago. I am studying Political science and global studies. In my free time I volunteer in the Chicago area and explore new places. I have loved being in a new city and making new friends. This summer I will be going to Ireland as a part of my schools study abroad program.


Leah F., Chattanooga ‘24

After my unforgettable two weeks with SCMH, I dove further into my education and started at Middle College through Walter State Community College! It’s like starting my freshman year of college, when in real time I’m starting my junior year of high school. I will be receiving my associates degree and high school diploma in the same graduation! Through Middle College, I got 5 years of the HOPE scholarship. 2 years towards my associates and then can use three years of scholarship towards undergrad or grad school!! Blessed and highly favored I am! I am so thankful for the two weeks I spent learning with SCMH. When my friends Johnny, Mckinna, and I were featured in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, I had several people reach out asking my story and my thoughts about the US v Shipp case! It changed my life, and is still changing it to this day!


Cian O., St. Louis ‘23 and Hometowns Intern ‘24

I recently enrolled in Johns Hopkins to study public health in the Class of 2029! As of the moment, I am looking for a roommate and waiting on more information from JHU, but I am hoping to add a double major in economics or public policy.


Tanishika S., Indianapolis ‘24

I have recently been participating in the county mock trial competitions, which are still ongoing and will conclude next week. Our team has been diligently preparing, gaining a deeper understanding of courtroom procedures and legal strategies. With the regional competition approaching this Saturday, we are in the stage of preparation, refining our arguments and practicing our roles to ensure we perform at our best.


Shederick W., Indianapolis ‘24

It has been an amazing senior year with tremendous growth and new experiences. I have been accepted into several colleges and am considering my top options, which include Indiana University, Purdue University, and Ohio State University. Outside the classroom, I’ve also held leadership roles, including as President of the National Honors Society, where I assisted in planning community service events, led club meetings, and helped other students. I’m also competing in a public speaking competition through SkillsUSA. Outside of school, I’m earning work experience through a Social Marketing Internship at Tallo. I have been job shadowing, assisting with content creation, conducting market research, and contributing to business strategy.


Cordelia E., St. Louis ‘23

I survived my first semester at WashU! It has been truly incredible here, and I have learned so much while having so much fun. I also finally got a hip replacement in December!!!


Mackenzie G., Chattanooga ‘24

Back in October, I participated in a podcast aimed at spreading awareness of the Ed Johnson case, which was a focus of the Hometowns program. I discussed the historical facts of the case and its impact on her view of the United States government. In the near future, I will be writing an opinion piece on politically driven polarization of the church for The Chattanooga Times. Beyond my historical and political interests, I have been involved in multiple theater productions, won an all-grade-levels musical chairs competition, got my senior photos done, and am exploring mission opportunities for after graduation!


Annisa T., Indianapolis ‘24

On Saturday, February 15, the Indianapolis/Evansville regional competition for Mock Trial took place downtown in the Community Justice Center. I competed as a part of the junior team for Heritage Christian School. My team, Peas in a Podcast, went on to qualify for competition at state level! I am highly anticipating the chance for her team to present their case again on March 8th.

McKinna W., Chattanooga ‘24

My volleyball team made it to the Elite 8 for state. Mock Trial has started and my team and I are so excited for the competition.

Soren O., Indianapolis ‘24

I was accepted to Rotary’s youth international exchange program, and will be going to Germany all of my junior year. I also have become a captain of the debate team at my school.

Maksim K., Indianapolis ‘24

All 5s on AP tests so far!

Gracie H., Chattanooga ‘24

I placed fourth in the LegalEagle Bi-Annual Judicial Case Bee. (Top 5 out of 250 participants in the nation). I was announced Valedictorian of my graduating class and I have been accepted to Sewanee, UTK, and UVM for environmental studies.

Emma B., St. Louis ‘23

College has been an amazing experience so far. I am super excited to have found an internship in Cincinnati during this semester and one over the summer in Saint Louis, both with immigration firms.

Eli C., Chattanooga ‘24

I am currently competing in my second Mock Trial. I received Straight A’s for the first semester and wrote a poetry book called the Language of Nature.

Lola L., Chattanooga ‘24

Right now I’m preparing for the mock trial competition this Wednesday as a part of the GPS A-Team. It’s a lot of work, and I am quite stressed, but since I plan on retiring from it after this year, I hope to give it one last good run.