Brown, Harvard, Yale & More - Blackstone Valley Prep Senior Celebrates Acceptances to Top Schools

Brown, Harvard, Yale & More - Blackstone Valley Prep Senior Celebrates Acceptances to Top Schools

A member of the senior class at Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP) has been accepted to Brown University, Harvard University, and Yale University -- as well as URI, PC, Brandeis University, Clark University, Skidmore College, Swarthmore College, Wellesley College, Williams College, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

“My first reaction was obviously that I was super happy,” said Victoria Wijerathnayapa, of her college acceptances. “I logged into the portals as soon as the decisions were available. It was a really emotional experience, but a happy one.”

Wijerathnayapa, a Pawtucket resident and future first-generation college student, has been enrolled at BVP since fifth grade. She is currently taking courses at the Community College of Rhode Island through Running Start, a dual enrollment program for high school seniors who have demonstrated the academic achievement and maturity necessary to enroll in college courses during their senior year of high school.

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“I’m not the typical student I thought an Ivy League school would want. I didn’t study abroad; I haven’t left New England, but I did the best I could with what I had. My mom is an immigrant, and she’s made a lot of sacrifices in order to give me the opportunity to get into these schools in the first place," she said. 

Plans to Major in Neuroscience -- Also Has Interest in Political Science 

Wijerathnayapa plans to major in neuroscience, but also notes her interest in political science. She’s interned at the Rhode Island Board of Elections and the Rhode Island State House, and volunteers with Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea. She received the 2019 Rhode Island Civic Leadership Award for exemplary dedication to civic engagement, community service, and academic achievement.

“Throughout her time at BVP, Victoria has continually challenged our expectations,” says David Jose, dean of College and Careers at BVPHS. "What differentiates her, however, is her dedication to excellence—her willingness to ask for help, redo assignments, and ensure a full and thorough understanding. It is clear, no matter what field she chooses, she will leave a lasting impact on the world.”

About Blackstone Valley Prep

Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP) is a network of high-performing, tuition-free public charter schools in Northern Rhode Island. As a growing, intentionally diverse network of six schools, BVP offers a high-quality public school choice to the families of Central Falls, Cumberland, Lincoln, and Pawtucket and currently serves nearly 2,100 scholars in grades K-12. BVP's mission is to prepare every scholar for success in college and the world beyond. More information can be found at www.blackstonevalleyprep.org.