Helms Ategeka’s extraordinary journey from a high school student in Oakland, California, to a prospective pop star with a passion for music is nothing short of remarkable. With a stellar 3.94 GPA, Helms has been accepted into 122 colleges and universities across the United States, amassing an impressive $5.3 million in scholarships.
Born in Uganda, Helms moved to the US to join his father, Chris Ategeka, a UC Berkeley graduate and tech entrepreneur. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new culture and education system, Helms thrived, thanks to the support of his family and his unwavering dedication to music. His love for music became the cornerstone of his college application process, as he sought institutions with strong music programs to nurture his talent.
Helms’ academic prowess and musical ambition caught the attention of numerous prestigious schools, including Bard College, Drexel, Howard, Loyola Marymount, Sarah Lawrence College, and his father’s alma mater, UC Berkeley. While some institutions like Brown, Wesleyan, and Colgate placed him on their waiting list or rejected him, the overwhelming number of acceptances spoke volumes about his capabilities.
The decision-making process was rigorous. Helms created a spreadsheet to weigh the pros and cons of each school, considering factors such as proximity to home and the diversity of their music programs. Social media played a pivotal role in his research, as he delved into videos of concerts and musical events to gauge the vibrancy and quality of each program.
Ultimately, Helms chose to stay close to home and attend UC Berkeley, where he plans to major in music and minor in global studies. This decision not only aligns with his passion but also carries a sentimental value, continuing the legacy of his father at the same university.
Helms’ story is a beacon of inspiration for young immigrants and aspiring musicians alike. It underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passion with determination and the role of family support in achieving success. As Helms prepares to embark on his college journey, he leaves behind a powerful message for his peers: to keep striving for their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
As he looks forward to starting college and taking a summer trip to Peru with a choir, Helms stands as a testament to the idea that with hard work and a clear vision, one can turn their dreams into reality. His acceptance into so many colleges is not just a personal victory but a celebration of the potential that lies within every dedicated student. Helms Ategeka’s story is a melody of success that resonates with the power of education and the universal language of music.
Ig @ mannu mwendwa.
