CSI Biology major Troy Weekes, Jr. is the College's latest Jeannette K. Watson Fellow.

For the fifth consecutive year, a CSI student has been accepted into the Jeannette K. Watson Fellowship.

Troy Weekes, Jr. is a freshman member of the SEEK and STEAM programs, majoring in Biology with a minor concentration in Theater. Weekes is a nontraditional student, returning to college to pursue his education seven years after graduating high school. During his time out of school, he held various full-time positions, including Gallery Coordinator at the Hilton Grand Hotel, Operations Supervisor at Rockefeller Center – Top of the Rock, and as a Flight Attendant for Colgan Airlines. Weekes is also a natural performer: he has sung publically since early childhood, both solo and in gospel choirs; during his teenage years, he participated in multiple talent showcases and competitions, including singing at the Apollo Theater twice. He is also an actor, having worked in two commercials, one public service announcement, two independent films, and one Nickelodeon network program. He can currently be seen on campus as a member of the CSI Gospel Choir and a finalist in the CSI’s Got Talent competition. Weekes is also deeply committed to mentoring young people; for the last few years, he has worked closely with teenagers at the Family and Friend Christian Worship Center in Brownsville, NY, and he is currently serving as a SEEK Ambassador, helping new SEEK students adjust to life in college. In addition to these accomplishments, he has managed to maintain a 3.88 GPA. Upon graduation, Weekes plans to attend pursue a career in education as a high school biology teacher and principal.

The Watson Fellowship is a three-year career-building and mentoring program that places students in paid internships for the final three summers of their college careers. Watson Fellows also have the opportunity to attend various cultural events and professional development events around the city. Recent CSI recipients of the Fellowship have included Paul Olivier (2011), Irvin Ibarguen (2010), Brian Kateman and Michael Maslankowski (2009), and Michael Young (2008).

For this upcoming summer’s internship, Weekes is considering Global Kids, Scenarios USA, and the Studio Museum in Harlem.

In order to apply for the Watson Fellowship, students must be freshmen or sophomores, not older than 25 years old at the time of application, and U.S. citizens or green card holders. Ideal candidates will be able to demonstrate a history of academic success and community/college involvement. If you would like to learn more about this exciting opportunity, please visit the Career and Scholarship Center in Building 1A, Room 105 or call 718.982.2301.