Jahnyah and Her Journey of Resilience and Growth; An Alumni's Outside Perspective
Introducing Jahnyah
Meet Jahnyah, a remarkable young individual we have enjoyed getting to know over the past several years. Jahnyah is a part of the Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA) family and has been on several Outside Perspectives (OP) programs over the last three years. She stood out as a leader at COBA and during OP programs and is now moving on to do great things at UCONN and beyond! We want to congratulate Jahnyah on all of her accomplishments and spotlight her time with us at OP.
Jahnyah happily shared how her experiences with COBA and Outside Perspectives shaped her and why these experiences are crucial for all kids. Her journey from East Hartford High School to the University of Connecticut (UCONN) is a testament to her dedication, ambition, and the transformative power of experiences like those offered by a partnership between Charter Oak Boxing Academy and Outside Perspectives.
High School Achievements
Jahnyah graduated from East Hartford High School on June 6, 2023, with an impressive list of honors. She earned High Honors, graduating 11th out of 330 students. Additionally, she received the prestigious Connecticut Seal of Biliteracy for her proficiency in Spanish.
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Academic Pursuits at UCONN
Jahnyah began her journey at UCONN this Fall and is pursuing a degree in Molecular and Cell Biology (B.S.) at UCONN. She plans to contribute to the UConn Boxing team as a coach for women boxers while continuing her own personal training. Jahnyah is also eager to explore other clubs and opportunities on campus.
Furthermore, she aspires to engage in research under a professor's guidance while at UCONN, emphasizing her commitment to personal and academic growth.
Looking ahead, Jahnyah has set ambitious goals for her post-graduation path. Her aspiration is to attend medical school with the ultimate goal of becoming a cardiac surgeon, a career choice that showcases her determination to make a significant impact in the field of healthcare.
COBA & Outside Perspectives: Shaping Character and Building Bonds
Jahnyah joined COBA in the fall of 2019 with a genuine interest in boxing. Her journey has been marked by impressive accomplishments, including being ranked 3rd in the country for the 132 lb youth female division and being named the 2022 Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Amateur Boxer of the Year.
What stands out most for Jahnyah in her COBA experience is the sense of community it fosters. “Once you’re part of the COBA family, it is a forever thing. I love how the coaches want what's best for the boxers. They genuinely care for the kids and have supported us with whatever we choose to do in life that is positive,” says Jahnyah. The support and guidance received from COBA have been invaluable in her personal and athletic development.
Jahnyah has also actively participated in COBA’s Outside Perspectives Expeditions, having embarked on three of these transformative journeys. “I have had such a unique and enriching experience each time I have gone. I grew closer with all of my teammates. The bonds that I formed from being out there are unmatched.”
The Outside Perspectives Expeditions have strengthened her bonds with teammates and ignited a passion for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking. “I learned more about myself while out on these trips. I discovered that being outside and doing activities such as hiking, camping, and being on the water is a newfound passion of mine.”
Life Lessons from Outside Perspectives Expeditions
Through Outside Perspectives Expeditions, Jahnyah has learned essential life skills. She has discovered the importance of teamwork, supporting teammates, and adapting to unforeseen challenges. “I learned how to function as a unit and to do what’s best for everyone. I learned that you can’t predict everything; life comes at you unexpectedly, and it’s up to us to adapt and succeed in the face of change.”
Memorable Outside Perspectives Moments: Finding Solitude and Self-Reflection
One of Jahnyah's most cherished memories from an Outside Perspectives trip was during the summer of 2022. Her instructor, Katelyn, gifted each participant a journal, which became a significant part of the experience. “We did something called ‘solos’ where we would go to a designated place near our campsite by ourselves and just be aware of the moment and just write about whatever we wanted in our journals.” The ‘solos,’ moments of solitude and self-reflection in nature, allowed Jahnyah and her peers to connect with the environment and express their thoughts and feelings through writing.
The Importance of Outside Perspectives Expeditions for Youth
Jahnyah believes that participating in Outside Perspectives Expeditions is vital for youth's personal development. These experiences allow young individuals to explore their inner selves, learn new skills, and step out of their comfort zones. It enables them to embrace the unpredictability of life and adapt successfully. “If just going on one expedition can cause a kid to look within themselves and learn something new, then it would be imperative for all youth to have this kind of experience at least once.”
Jahnyah believes that, for the new, up-and-coming COBA crew, these expeditions will provide a unique opportunity to bond with teammates, make lasting friendships, and explore activities that may be foreign to them otherwise. “Going out on these trips with teammates and friends is a great way to build stronger relationships and bonds with each other after coming back from the wilderness.”
Jahnyah's journey from East Hartford High School to UCONN, with the support of COBA and the transformative experiences of Outside Perspectives Expeditions, is a testament to her resilience, growth, and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Her story serves as an inspiration to all young individuals striving for excellence and personal growth. We look forward to witnessing her continued success on her path to medical school and beyond.
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