Forman Scholar Jesse Wood Headed to the City of Brotherly Love to Pursue Passion for Computers

Jesse Wood’s passion for computers stretches back farther than he can even remember. From building his own systems to serving as a ‘tech guru’ for his friends and family in need, Jesse enjoys all aspects of the field. This fall, the Forman Scholar is headed to Philadelphia’s Drexel University to study engineering and deepen his appreciation for a technology that has been a constant throughout his entire life.

“The opportunities that are available through Drexel’s co-op program are truly endless,” Jesse said. “When I visited the school, I instantly felt as if this was the campus where I belonged. Not only are the engineering programs impressive, but the entire community is also welcoming, encouraging and supportive of students’ goals and aspirations.”

Although Jesse will initially study computer engineering, he is open to eventually exploring other facets of the industry, such as software engineering. He looks forward to learning from world-class professors and soaking up all that the dynamic city of Philadelphia has to offer.

Jesse remained active as a high school student, focusing much of his time and energy on Salem High’s engineering club and Project Lead the Way, through which students apply STEM knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems. He also participated in various music ensembles, the Ambassador’s club and the bowling team.

“I always enjoyed spending time with friends and classmates after school and participating in various clubs and organizations," Jesse said. "Over the course of my first few semesters at Drexel, I plan on becoming equally involved in the school’s many on-campus organizations.”

Through his involvement, Jesse developed a deep love and appreciation for Salem High. So, while he is extremely excited to start the next chapter of his life at Drexel, he looks back on his time as a Salem student fondly.

“I really loved the pep rally days,” Jesse said. “As we got older, they became even more enjoyable. Our whole school was able to come together in those moments and celebrate as one community.”

While Jesse realizes his move to Philly may at times be overwhelming, he knows the new friends he will meet and the new experiences he will partake in will support him during this time of massive transition.

“I think the thing I’m most excited about, and maybe also slightly nervous about, is the chance to leave and completely start over,” Jesse said. “The next few years will allow me to somewhat reinvent myself and challenge myself as I learn what it means to live independently.”

This is Jesse’s first year being involved with the Forman Acton Foundation, but he is grateful for the guidance and support the Foundation’s staff has already provided him just over the last few months.

“The Foundation is a special support system, unlike any I’ll encounter as a Drexel student,” Jesse said. “The organization has a unique ability to recognize our potential as Scholars and to provide us with ways we can maximize that potential. I am extremely grateful for their dedication to not only my success but the success of my fellow Scholars.”