Crystal Lake South’s Oswald Humphrey Earns Full Ride to University as Gates Scholar
Crystal Lake South High School senior Oswald Humphrey is one of 300 students nationwide to earn the prestigious Gates Scholarship, which covers the full cost of attendance at a four-year university and includes mentorship and career support. Oswald plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he will major in Computer Science with a concentration in data science.
Oswald’s outstanding academic record, with a 4.5 GPA, and leadership roles in activities like the CLS Robotics program, Speech Team, Black Student Union, and National Honor Society made him a strong candidate for this highly competitive award. His transition from Nigeria to the U.S. has shaped him into a driven individual. As captain of the Robotics team and cabinet member of the Black Student Union, he has demonstrated his ability to lead and inspire others while creating positive change in his community.
"My proudest moment in high school was when I spoke on a Black History Month panel about the struggles Black students face," Oswald said. "It was a powerful experience to share my story and advocate for others who have felt unseen or unheard."
Oswald’s passion for Computer Science began in Robotics, where he discovered his love for problem-solving and building systems.
"When I had to take over as the lead programmer, I realized how much I enjoyed it, and that fueled my passion for Computer Science.”
The AP Computer Science Principles, AP Computer Science A, and AP Physics courses at CLS helped solidify his decision to pursue this field.
Oswald credits much of his success to mentors like his speech teacher, Corey Miedwig, who helped him build the confidence needed for his Gates interview, and his mother, who motivated him by teaching him about perseverance and the importance of pushing forward through challenges.
Looking ahead, Oswald is committed to using his education to mentor others.
"Through my field of study, I want to mentor underrepresented students in STEM, especially those who, like me, had to navigate difficult transitions or environments. This scholarship is more than just an opportunity for me. It’s a way for me to give back and inspire others to follow their dreams."
Each year, the Gates Scholarship is awarded to outstanding minority high school seniors to help them realize their full potential by removing financial barriers to higher education. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the program reflects the Foundation’s long-standing commitment to supporting exceptional student leaders from underrepresented backgrounds.