Each spring, Alliance City Schools hosts a series of Pathfinder Award assemblies to recognize individuals who have been an inspiration in one of five areas: arts and science, education, humanitarianism, citizenship/government and business, for their “service and dedication to helping others and inspiring Alliance High School students to reach their full potential. Stephen Jones, M.D. (’10), was recently honored at a ceremony at his high school.
Dr. Jones, a surgeon with Suncoast Surgical Associates in Florida, shared his pathway to success for students in attendance along with key pieces of advice. Most notably, he shared that it is not always easy – or even likely – to achieve your dreams on the first try. Dr. Jones shared that he didn’t pass the medical school entrance exam on the first try, but he knew he was meant to become a physician. He worked to overcome that hurdle, and it took Dr. Jones three tries to pass the entrance exam and begin his studies.
Dr. Jones advised students to have a positive mindset and believe in themselves to overcome any obstacles and achieve their goals. After delivering his speech, Jones participated in a college and career readiness-focused Q&A session with members of a student success, character, leadership and life-skills-development program at Alliance High School aimed at improving Black students’ academic and social achievement.