Jacob Rude, a senior at Bio-Med Science Academy, will be working with the Office of Marketing and Communications as part of his APEX Project, which helps students gain hands-on experience in a professional setting prior to graduation. Throughout the year, Jacob will assist while learning the fundamentals of marketing and communications.
Where are you from? How long have you lived in Northeast Ohio?
I’ve lived in Ravenna for all 18 years of my life. I always thought we lived in a nice quiet little town, until I met some friends at Bio-Med from the townships. They showed me what the middle of nowhere really looks like.
How do you like to spend your free time?
When I can get some free time nowadays, the first thing I want to do is read a good book or watch a good show. If those options are unavailable for one reason or another, I typically turn to writing short stories or listening to podcasts. The topics could range from silly comedies to dramatic historical fiction, depending on my mood.
What’s the best thing about being a Bio-Med student?
The people. I continue to meet people from varying backgrounds at Bio-Med that I would otherwise never have had the chance of meeting. In addition, the teaching staff is ambitious and it is obvious they strive to give us an excellent education.
What drew you to Bio-Med?
I’m going to be honest here. Originally, I was not interested in Bio-Med in the slightest. It was my mother who planted the seed in my mind of this proving ground of new challenges. The thing about me, though, is that I am incredibly averse to change and will do anything in my power to keep my life the same. As time passed, the seed planted in my mind grew into an impassable wall of vines, which I had no choice but to face. The prospect of joining this new environment was terrifying to me, but in the same sense the fear mingled with an excitement that grew into an intoxicating allure which could not be ignored.
What is most interesting to you about Bio-Med’s proximity and connection with NEOMED?
The most interesting part of living a life in a school within a university is the fact that we are expected to act with a professionalism that is largely unexpected from high school students. Not only are we expected to act in such a manner, but we are also given respect and privileges in return. This dynamic prepares us much earlier for work in a professional environment than other high schools.
Favorite book?
I am currently reading The Lord of the Rings for the first time. I have been a fan of the movies for years. So far it seems very promising.
Last show you binge-watched?
The last show I binge watched was Sherlock Holmes on Netflix, the BBC version with Benedict Cumberbatch. It’s an interesting, modern take on the genius detective that I think Cumberbatch plays brilliantly.
If you could transform into any animal, which one would you choose?
I would transform into a panda, probably. I feel like they’re protected enough that I could live an easygoing and carefree life.
How about that dream job?
When I was a little kid, I really wanted to become an archaeologist so I could dig up ancient artifacts all over the world. Nowadays, I’d probably say something like a novelist who actually makes good money, but I’ve always had the adventurous side in the back of my mind.