Alanah Poullard, a 16-year-old from Jennings, Louisiana, is making headlines as she graduates high school and prepares for college. Accepted into 60 colleges nationwide, Poullard has also amassed over a million dollars in scholarships.
"It's happening so fast it feels like I just started my first year of high school, like my first day of high school, and now to say I'm graduating is just a shock," Poullard said.
Her academic journey has been marked by a passion for medicine, highlighted by an internship at the American Academy of Medicine and Surgery at the University of California. Adding to her achievements, Poullard gained viral fame as a child when she met former President Barack Obama—a moment that has stayed with her over the years.
Poullard's excitement about her achievements is palpable as she recalls the joy and disbelief of receiving her college acceptance. Despite her young age, she offers sage advice to other aspiring students, emphasizing the value of community service over perfect grades. Looking ahead, Poullard plans to attend Louisiana State University to major in microbiology.
"Just because you don't have a high A-C-T score or your grades might not be that good, you can still apply to that school if you want to," Poullard said. "I guarantee you when you have a long list of community services that you've done, that's going to say a lot about you as a person."
Her ultimate goal is to become a trauma surgeon, following her undergraduate studies. Poullard's story is not just one of academic success but also of inspiration, showing that determination and community involvement can pave the way to achieving one's dreams.