Tivere Shemi
Myself Third Spirit of New York 2003 Scholarship Winner
Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics
The City College of New York
"Tivere Shemi is a well-organized, disciplined, punctual, talented and self-motivated young woman. She is extremely cooperative and helpful to her teachers and fellow students. She works hard to complete every assignment and does not hesitate to seek help understanding a particular problem or issue. In addition to her steady progress in mathematics, Tivere is a member of the National Honor Society, a GE scholar, and an active peer tutor in mathematics. Tivere puts great demands on herself and continually seeks greater challenges. She is an extremely confident, warm and mature young woman with great potential."
—Alla Raynes, Mathematics Teacher
Work, Volunteer, and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Math Peer Tutoring
- National Honor Society
- GE Scholars Program
- President, UMOJA Club
- International Alliance Club
Excerpts from Tivere's Essay
The events of 9/11 struck the hearts of many. People felt that in a country filled with so many opportunities, freedom was worth fighting for and saving. By volunteering to help, people fought to save the lives that would one day make a difference in this country.
Before I moved here five years ago, I had never heard of natural rights, freedom of speech, community service or so many job opportunities. I believe a country with all of these laws and opportunities is worth fighting for. Upon moving here, seeing so many faces, and becoming part of this nation, you feel that any contribution you make would make it a better place.
When I first started participating in community service, I did it because I thought it would improve my college application. But after participating in a number of community service activities, I realized that I benefited not only because it looked good on my college application, but because for every person I helped, I also helped benefit the country. It was a feeling unlike any other. That was when I understood what patriotic service meant.
Math Peer Tutoring is a nonprofit program at my school, started four years ago by my former math teacher Mr. Tom. I became a tutor my sophomore year of high school. In his room, B15, we pride ourselves on helping others. I am a member of the National Honor Society, which also does a lot of community service. We volunteered at the high school fair, did a toy drive last Christmas in connection with the New York Metropolitan Hospital and volunteered at the Christmas celebration where we gave toys to the children.
With these services, I feel that I have helped many people in my school, my city and thus have helped my country.
