From the moment Curtis Somado walked the halls of Jesuit Academy, it was clear he had a bright future ahead. A member of the Class of 2021, Curtis says his time at JA laid the foundation for the student and person he is today.
“Being a good student at Jesuit Academy makes you a good student anywhere,” he shared. “It taught me that no matter where life takes you, it’s important to always give your best effort.”
Curtis remembers JA as a place where he grew not just academically, but in confidence, leadership, and character. One of his favorite memories is the Jay Walk during his fifth-grade year, a day filled with fun, community, and school spirit. Another special memory was when the Pancake Man came. He recalls the excitement and laughter of that day, and how moments like those made Jesuit Academy feel like a second home.
After graduating from Jesuit Academy, Curtis attended IDEA Quest Preparatory School in McAllen, Texas. Then, he built on the strong academic habits and leadership skills formed at JA. He excelled as both a student and athlete, competing on the varsity basketball and track and field teams, and serving as captain on the varsity basketball team during his senior year. Beyond athletics, he was an active member of the Health Occupations Students of America (Medical Terminology), participated in Junior State of America (Speech and Debate), and served as Vice President of Student Council.
Curtis’s drive for excellence paid off. He graduated high school with honors, a 4.0 GPA, and was named among the Top 3 in his class for AP Government, AP Literature, and AP Economics.
Today, Curtis is a freshman at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, majoring in Biology/Biomedical Sciences and preparing to follow a Pre-Medical track. His goal is to earn his Bachelor’s degree, continue on to medical school, and one day become a physician.
Even as he steps into the next chapter of his journey, Curtis continues to live out the lessons he first learned at Jesuit Academy. His advice for current JA students comes straight from experience:
“Even if your peers aren’t as focused as you are, remember that it’s your grade at the end of the day. Work hard when no one else is looking.”
Jesuit Academy taught Curtis that excellence begins with integrity, perseverance, and faith. Now, he is carrying those values with him into every lecture, every lab, and every opportunity ahead.
