Q&A: Meet Nathaniel George

Meet Nathaniel George, a recipient of the Alisa's Angels scholarship. From Phoenix, Arizona, Nathaniel is a recent graduate of Brophy College Preparatory and will be attending Duke University to study Economics and Public Policy. He is the founder and director of The Cactus Flower Initiative for Youth Entrepreneurship, based at Teen Central and StartUpPHX. Through this initiative, Nathaniel oversees all administrative and programming elements, aiming to empower and provide business and entrepreneurship opportunities for youth in Phoenix. Nathaniel’s dedication is what inspired us most about his story. 

What inspired you to apply for the Alisa’s Angels Scholarship?

I was inspired to apply for the scholarship because I was drawn to the mission of the Alisa's Angels Foundation. I think it is incredibly important for civic-minded youth to be supported on their educational journeys, especially as it can ensure that the next generation of leaders is empowered to create change, so I was excited to be able to apply for such an opportunity.

Can you share a moment or experience from high school that shaped who you are today?

I remember that when I took AP Chemistry during my sophomore year of high school, I found myself struggling with how hard the content was. I was scared to ask for help, as I was afraid of appearing weak or unprepared. I made the decision to go into my teacher's office hours and quickly learned that it was not as intimidating as I thought. This helped to shape me into an individual who more readily embraces asking for help and collaborating, rather than being afraid of it.

What are you most excited about as you embark on your future plans?

I am most excited about the trials and failures of college! After being a perfectionist for all my life, and all my high school career, I am excited to be in new environments in college and to view both personal and academic failures as not just disappointments, but also as opportunities for growth and learning. 

How do you hope to make a difference in your community or field of study?

As someone who hopes to work in public service, I am most excited to make a difference by embracing a style of politics rooted in servant leadership. As a public leader, I hope to be an advocate for leadership that places the needs of the people I serve above that of my own. Additionally, I hope to embrace bipartisan change and the importance of setting aside differences to make decisions that benefit the greater good.

What is a personal achievement or milestone you are particularly proud of?

I was incredibly proud to have been selected for the Bank of America Student Leaders Program last summer. As a prestigious national program that seeks to highlight the effort of dedicated student leaders, it was incredible to have been able to create change through a local summer internship with the Boys and Girls Club, and then to be able to meet youth from all across the country at the Student Leaders Summit. 

What are some of your favorite hobbies or interests outside of academics?

Outside of academics, I enjoy writing poetry, reading a good book, hiking Arizona's beautiful trails, trying my best at baking, and thrifting some cool vintage clothes!