Xander Jones is a driven, focused scholar, dually enrolled at Central Piedmont Early College High School and Central Piedmont Community College. On track to graduate with an Associate of Arts degree as he completes his high school education, his genuine passion for learning and diligence in his studies are reflected in his academic accomplishments and in his cherished cultural heritage. He is the son and grandson of Haitian immigrants, who imparted a strong value in the power that the pursuit of education holds to transform one’s reality.  Xander holds a deep reverence for his cultural foundation, and views it  as a primary conduit for shaping his perspective and inner drive for learning.

Xander’s leadership and initiative has been evident from a very young age. At the age of five, he confidently stood before a senior high school class and delivered a passionate presentation on the planets, solar system, and his love for science. Confidently answering questions from students many years his senior, his personal traits of calm confidence, thoughtful communication, and collaboration with a variety of individuals shined, and have thereafter persevered into the current day.

Xander has carried this  intellectual curiosity and academic enthusiasm with him in pursuing  rigorous enrichment opportunities, including Duke University’s Summer Research in Engineering Program. Trading traditional summer leisure for a selective scientific exposure program for high-achieving youth, he excelled in the completion of advanced coursework, research exposure, and collaborative problem solving activities with his peers. An analytical thinker, Xander was grateful for this opportunity to deepen his interest in the scientific field, as well as to provide him with hands-on experience that he foresees will be prioritized in his desired area of science and engineering.

Xander plans to major in Biomedical Engineering with the aim to further medical developments that will improve patient care. With long term goals focusing  on innovation, research, and leadership within healthcare and technology, he is committed to using his education to develop solutions that positively impact individuals and communities. He looks forward to persevering in his academic pursuits as he transitions to the next stage of his collegiate education.