Meet Our Student Ambassadors
Who better to hear from about The Clarkson School than our own students? Take a look at our TCS ambassadors below, and let us know if you'd like to get in touch with any of them to start a conversation about your future at TCS.
Johannes Richter
Hometown: Potsdam, NY
Studying: Business Administration
Involved in: High Dive Club, The CU Pantry
Why did you enroll in TCS?
I enrolled in TCS because I felt that I was no longer being academically challenged at my high school and also wanted to be in a more mature environment away from the drama that usually comes with being in high school.
What do you love most about TCS?
What I love most about TCS is how supportive the staff is when it comes to our success. The TCS staff is always making sure that we have the necessary resources at our disposal whenever we need but they also ensure that we maintain a level of independence when using these resources to help prepare us for college after TCS.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
I would recommend students who are relatively self-motivated and enjoy being challenged academically but also students who are able to maintain a level of independence as most of our students at TCS live on campus away from their parents or guardians.
Caden Ritchie
Hometown: Saint Albans, Vermont
Studying: Financial Information & Analysis
Involved in: Tennis Club
Why did you enroll in TCS?
I chose to enroll in TCS because it provided opportunities far beyond those available at my high school and gave me the chance to begin my college journey early.
What do you love most about TCS?
It feels like everyone is connected and looking out for each other, creating a supportive community where you’re encouraged to succeed.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
I would recommend TCS to any hard-working and determined student. It’s the drive that takes you places.
Madison Ashley
Hometown: Norwood, NY
Studying: Biology
Involved in: Peer educator for TCS first year seminar
Why did you enroll in TCS?
I enrolled in TCS because I was ready for a new academic and personal challenge. Highschool felt repetitive and I was happy to have the opportunity to start my college career.
What do you love most about TCS?
I love all of the students and staff. I have felt very welcomed by the staff at TCS ever since my first time meeting them. I also enjoy being surrounded by peers who are equally passionate about school.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
I would recommend a student who is mature and motivated. College is a different atmosphere than high school and students applying should be ready to make that change.
Nicholas Raeff
Hometown: Owego, NY
Studying: Chemical Engineering
Involved in: Ski Club, Outing Club, TCS Council
Why did you enroll in TCS?
To take advantage of the academic and extracurricular opportunities that my high school did not offer.
What do you love most about TCS?
The sense of community!
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
Someone who is academically focused and who is exited about trying new things.
Elif Cetinkaya
Hometown: Potsdam, NY
Studying: Biochemistry, Pre-Med
Involved in: The Pre-Health Society, The Clarkson School as a Peer Educator (Teaching Assistant), and Clarkson Undergraduate Admissions as an official campus tour guide
Why did you enroll in TCS?
I believed TCS was the best choice for improving my education and challenging myself in a supportive environment.
What do you love most about TCS?
What I love most is how much TCS helped me grow. I met classmates who shared my ambitions and interests, supportive advisors who guided me, and the experience shaped me both academically and personally.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
I would recommend TCS to any student who is passionate about learning, values personal growth, and is eager to develop professionally. I hope to see you on my next tour!
Richard Darou
Hometown: Harrisville, NY
Studying: Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering
Involved in: WTSC Radio Club, Theatre Club, CULT Club, D&D Club, Track Club
Why did you enroll in TCS?
To challenge myself with college level courses.
What do you love most about TCS?
The community of students on campus.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
Students who are feeling "bored" in high school.
Isabella Ponzi
Hometown: Oswego, NY
Studying: Mechanical Engineering with a Business minor
Involved in: Honors Program, Clarkson Baja SAE
Why did you enroll in TCS?
I enrolled in TCS because I had already taken most of the relevant courses available at my high school and wanted to keep challenging myself academically. TCS allowed me to challenge myself and start my intended career early.
What do you love most about TCS?
What I love most about TCS is the staff. They are incredibly helpful, especially when it comes to making the transition from high school to college a year early. It made the whole process feel much smoother and less overwhelming.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
I would recommend TCS to students who are driven, curious, and ready for an academic challenge. If you’ve outgrown the opportunities at your high school and are excited to explore your interests while gaining experience, TCS is the perfect place for you.
Levi Forney
Hometown: Norwood, NY
Studying: Business Administration
Involved in: Girls Club Hockey
Why did you enroll in TCS?
I enrolled in TCS because I was not challenged in high school and wanted to experience the college environment.
What do you love most about TCS?
The environment and people involved in the program.
What kind of student would you recommend TCS to?
I recommend TCS to students who do not feel challenged at their high school and to students that want a new environment.