Shalaya Jones is a determined and ambitious 16-year-old with a clear goal in mind: to become a pediatrician by the age of 21. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has taken significant steps toward her dream, balancing school, work and athletics with remarkable resilience. Shalaya shares her journey, her experiences at Esperanza Academy and how she strives to be a role model for her peers.
What goal or dream are you currently pursuing? What steps have you taken, or plan to take, to reach your goal or dream?
My current goal is to become a pediatrician by the age of 21. I’ve already taken a few steps toward achieving this, such as joining the National Honor Society and enrolling early at Eastern University College. I plan to graduate with both my high school diploma and an associate degree in health science in 2025. Afterward, I will attend nursing school to earn my certification and then continue for another two years to obtain my bachelor’s degree.
Tell us about the journey that led you to your current goal or dream.
My name is Shalaya Jones, and I’m a 16-year-old female. I’m determined, hardworking, kind and tenacious. I’m also a devoted student, athlete and worker. I’ve lived in Philadelphia, PA, my whole life, and although I haven’t lived in the best parts, I’ve always made the most of it—that’s how I was raised. I have one sibling, a mother and a father. My family is my motivation and my world. Without them, I wouldn’t be doing any of the things I’m doing now. They’ve pushed me to believe that the sky’s the limit, and no one can stop me but myself.
I switched schools frequently between 4th and 5th grade, but finally settled into middle school at Esperanza Academy Charter School. Before Esperanza, I excelled in my previous school, but my mom knew it was too easy for me, so she found Esperanza, which was more challenging. At first, it was tough to adjust, but instead of quitting, I fought hard and achieved the grades I knew I could—A’s and B’s. Just as I was settling in, COVID hit, and it dramatically impacted my academics.
During virtual learning, my grades dropped, I lost focus, and it was a dark time for me. But when in-person classes resumed, I viewed it as another challenge to overcome. Starting high school was the best thing that could have happened. It brought me back to a place where I could connect with my teachers, peers, and friends. In both 9th and 10th grade, I maintained a 4.0 GPA.
I’ve been working since I was 12, including jobs with children and pharmacies, and currently, I work at a health clinic helping to test patients. Balancing work, college classes, and being an athlete has been difficult, but by pacing myself, I’ve managed. I’m also a three-sport athlete—playing flag football, volleyball and cheerleading. Sports are a part of who I am, helping me deal with emotions and connect with people my age. My weekly schedule involves school from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., work from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and practice from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Weekends are my time to relax and spend with loved ones. It hasn’t been easy, but I know it will pay off. Yes, I’ve been tempted to stray, but I’ve stayed focused, with my family always guiding me in the right direction.
How has your experience at Esperanza Academy supported you in your pursuit of your goal or dream?
Esperanza Academy opened my eyes to opportunities I didn’t have before. My previous school didn’t offer programs like the National Honor Society, sports, clubs, or early college classes. Although I’ve had ups and downs, Esperanza taught me to face challenges and aim higher. They’ve instilled in me the importance of determination, hard work, and kindness, and shown me that these qualities pay off.
What are some ways that you strive to be a role model for your peers?
In my generation, it’s hard to stay on track. At 15 to 17 years old, you’re curious, trying new things, and figuring out what you want in life. That’s why I believe I can be a great role model. Even through everything, I’ve stayed true to my passion, which is to become a pediatrician by 21. I want my generation to know that nothing holds you back from your goals except yourself. I hope to inspire them to see that if they want something, they can achieve it.
I feel like I can connect with my generation because we’re going through the same things. I want to change the way people my age think, encouraging them to advocate for themselves rather than letting others dictate their path. While I can help guide someone in the right direction, they also need to want success for themselves. If given the opportunity, I will be a role model that others can follow, talk to, and enjoy learning from.
