Forman Scholar Eunique Cooper Encourages Others to Forge Their Own Path in the World

Eunique Cooper fondly remembers the exact moment when she discovered her passion for design in her 7th-grade science class. At first, the Forman Scholar dreamed of turning her love of design into a career in fashion. However, after successfully completing several engineering classes at Salem High, she uncovered her true calling: architecture, a field that would allow her to merge her dual passions of design and science.

“I have always had a strong interest in art and science. I want to build a career with a foundation in creativity and function that will allow me to create lasting pieces of art for the world,” said Eunique.

Eunique will begin her journey into the world of architecture this fall as a student at Thomas Jefferson University. Her ultimate goal is to someday launch her own architectural firm. She is eager to learn all that goes into designing homes and other structures, enrich her creative mind and build out her entrepreneurial aspirations.

Over the course of four years as a Salem Ram, Eunique remained involved and active in the school community, participating in both athletic and extracurricular programs. She competed on the school’s track and field team, excelled as a member of the basketball team and took active positions in Student Council, the Engineering Club and the Environmental Science Club.

“Out of all of the activities I was involved in, my favorite had to have been the Engineering Club,” said Eunique. “Although I made sure to incorporate engineering courses into my schedule, the club is what really allowed me to dig deeper into the subject and learn more about the field.”

Like so many students, the COVID-19 pandemic placed a heavy burden on Eunique’s senior year and threatened to disrupt so many hard-earned milestones. She’s thankful one special event, senior prom, was still able to be held in person. Dancing the night away at the Salem Country Club surrounded by friends, Eunique’s evening served as a magical way to close out a challenging school year.

Eunique says the support system provided by Salem High’s faculty and staff was unparalleled, and the relationships she built with her teachers allowed her to learn valuable life and classroom lessons. It was through this one-on-one attention that Eunique felt empowered to set her sights on a career in architecture and pursue her true passions.

“My teachers helped me find and develop my independent spirit – my most authentic self. When it came time to plan for life after graduation, I had the confidence to put forth a plan suited to my dreams and my interests,” said Eunique. “I felt like I had the power within me to adapt to any obstacle or challenge placed before me.”

As Eunique prepares for an exciting future at Thomas Jefferson University, she encourages those who are still in the college search process to listen to their mind and heart.

“It’s imperative that students do their research because a college education is a major investment and not one to be taken lightly. Things like class size, campus culture and location should all be taken into account,” said Eunique.

Eunique is not only ready to tackle her freshman year of college, but she’s also thrilled to have the opportunity to grow into her own person.

“I’m really looking forward to finding my own way in the world and truly discovering who I am as a person. I am ready to make an impact on the world,” she said.