At just 17 years old, Omarion Ikaika Calloway has achieved what many could only dream of. As a senior at Park Crossing High School in Montgomery, Alabama, he has been accepted into more than 21 universities, including his dream school, New York University (NYU). Alongside these impressive college acceptances, Omarion has secured more than $1.3 million in scholarships. His story is not just one of academic excellence, but also of resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to his dreams, all while navigating a challenging personal life.
A Challenging Beginning
Omarion’s journey to academic success began under less-than-ideal circumstances. At the tender age of 10, he found himself taking on responsibilities that would be overwhelming for many adults. With his mother, Tiffany Calloway, working two jobs to support the family, Omarion became the primary caregiver for his grandmother, who was battling colon cancer, and his uncle, who was disabled and autistic. His daily tasks included meal preparation, administering medications, and ensuring that his uncle received his insulin injections. These responsibilities, which he managed with maturity and compassion, set the foundation for the disciplined and empathetic individual he has become.
Despite the challenges he faced at home, Omarion remained dedicated to his education. He maintained a GPA of over 3.9, excelling in his studies even as he took on advanced math courses through a virtual learning platform. His teachers and mentors consistently praised his positive attitude and work ethic. J. Kelley Ross, a virtual learning facilitator, remarked, “He’s one of those students that has an attitude that’s rare for a high school student. Pretty much already ready for college, I’m sure.”
The Power of Inspiration
Omarion’s love for storytelling and his aspiration to become a filmmaker were largely inspired by his grandmother. He often shared his stories with her, reading them aloud at night as she lay in bed. It was his grandmother who encouraged him to apply to NYU, a school renowned for its film program and its nurturing of future storytellers and community builders. Her passing was a devastating blow for Omarion, but it also strengthened his resolve to honor her memory by pursuing his dream of attending NYU.
Even after his uncle’s death, which came just before the start of his senior year, Omarion remained focused on his goals. He channeled his grief into his studies and continued to excel academically. His hard work paid off on December 15, 2021, when he received the news that he had been accepted into NYU. “I felt like a big weight was lifted from my shoulders,” Omarion said, reflecting on the moment he learned he had been admitted to his dream school.
Beyond Academics: A Heart for Service
In addition to his academic achievements, Omarion has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving his community. Over the past summer, he interned with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, where he engaged in various tasks, including pressure washing and landscaping. His mentor, Isaac Forbes, noted Omarion’s eagerness to learn and his positive attitude, describing him as a “sponge” who always had a smile on his face. This experience not only broadened Omarion’s skill set but also helped him come out of his shell and develop his communication skills.
Omarion’s dedication to helping others extends beyond his immediate community. As he prepares to start his journey at NYU, he plans to create an organization for young caregivers like himself. His vision is to provide a support network and raise funds to assist young people who, like him, have taken on caregiving responsibilities at a young age. He hopes to use his platform as a filmmaker to give a voice to the voiceless and work towards building a better tomorrow.
A Bright Future Ahead
Omarion Ikaika Calloway’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of family support, and the belief that one’s circumstances do not define their potential. His achievements have not only made his family proud but have also inspired many in his community and beyond. As his mother, Tiffany Calloway, proudly stated, “All a mother wants is for her child to have the best life possible. I’m a happy and grateful mother, and I am immensely proud of him.”
As Omarion steps into the next chapter of his life, his story continues to inspire others. His determination to succeed despite the odds, his passion for storytelling, and his commitment to service make him a role model for young people everywhere. At NYU, surrounded by like-minded artists and future community leaders, Omarion is poised to continue his journey of growth, storytelling, and success. His grandmother’s legacy lives on in him, and there is no doubt that she would be immensely proud of the young man he has become.
In a remarkable tale of friendship, determination, and professional achievement, four former roommates from North Carolina Central University’s School of Law, a historically Black college and university (HBCU), have all risen to the esteemed position of judges. Judge Shamieka Rhinehart, Judge Camille Banks-Prince, Judge Keisha Wright-Hill, and Judge Teresa Raquel Robinson-Freeman began their journey together 26 years ago as law students, sharing a dorm room and a dream. Today, they are all trailblazers on the bench, representing diversity, justice, and the power of HBCUs.
The story of these four women began during freshman orientation in August 1998. Rhinehart, Banks-Prince, Wright-Hill, and Robinson-Freeman quickly formed a strong bond, navigating the challenges of law school together. Their friendship blossomed through late-night study sessions, shared meals, and marathon viewing of ‘The Golden Girls,’ a popular sitcom they loved. “We became fast friends very early,” Judge Banks-Prince recalls. They even took an online quiz to see which ‘Golden Girls’ characters they matched, cementing their connection further.
While their initial goal was simply to graduate law school, their camaraderie and mutual support proved vital through personal and academic challenges. Judge Wright-Hill, who lost her father during their first year, credits her friends with encouraging her to return to school after a brief hiatus. “Because of them I’m here today, not just as an attorney, but as a judge,” she says, highlighting the deep emotional support that fortified their bond. Click here to continue reading about the amazing roommates turned Judges.
