Jared Hudson, the 2011 HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op Valedictorian graduate from Victory at Hillcrest Learning Center (now known as Parkhill Academy) in Denver, earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a triple minor in Women’s Studies, Africana Studies and Writing from the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) in Greeley in December 2015. He has dreams of becoming a professional writer and this fall entered Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York for a two year program to earn a Master’s in Fine Arts and Creative Writing.
“I’ve always wanted to do this, and I’ve worked really hard for it,” said Jared. “I can’t wait to see where the future takes me.”
Jared says his undergraduate experience flew by. He really enjoyed his time at UNC and made a lot of friends.
“I’ve grown a lot in the last 4 ½ years. I became more independent and resourceful,” said Jared, who also worked at a Greeley call center while earning his undergraduate degree.
Jared received funding from various sources to help pay for school in Greeley. In fact, he was a McNair Scholar during his last year at UNC where he did research in preparation for graduate school. He has already received some scholarships for graduate school and is looking for more.
“I’ve learned to not limit myself. Even if you can’t do something now, start off small and work up to it,” said Jared.
This was Jared’s mantra as he applied for graduate school. He didn’t take the easy road and applied to the Ivy League schools of Brown and Cornell Universities, in addition to eight others. Jared was accepted to two programs, including his final choice, Pratt Institute.
“There is nothing stopping you for shooting for the stars,” said Jared.
Jared lost his father in the fall of 2013. He is very thankful to HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op for the support system they provided to help him earn his high school diploma. Jared has stayed in touch with his HOPE Learning Center and appreciates all they continue to do for him to help him reach his dreams.
“Anything negative happening in your life is just in your head. Don’t limit yourself due to fear. Fear will melt away with time. HOPE prepared me. It’s in their name. Hope is the only thing stronger than fear,” said Jared.
One day Jared hopes to become an author, and possibly do screen writing, something he fell in love with during one of his final courses at UNC. He admits to being a little scared about starting this next chapter in his life, but takes a lot of pride in making his family proud.
“My goal is not just to support myself but to make a difference in this world. Touching another’s life is the greatest gift you can give. When you live for yourself, and not others, you will inspire,” said Jared.
HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op is proud of the thousands of lives that have been changed during their 12 year history. There are nearly 30 HOPE Learning Centers throughout the state. Students attend Learning Centers five days a week and rotate between online lessons and face-to-face classroom instruction. HOPE offers an alternative education pathway to students who may be struggling in a traditional school setting. A recent research report prepared by an expert researcher from a local university found students who stay with HOPE for more than two years improve their academic performance. In addition to academics, HOPE runs an extensive student activities and athletics program, which grows each year and positively contributes to the academic success of students. HOPE is a charter school of the Douglas County School District and serves 2,400 students in K-12th grade. For more information, visit www.hopeco-op.org or call 720-402-3000.