University Heights Academy senior Prit Patel and his Blazer teammates captured the 8th-District boys’ soccer title on Wednesday with a dramatic penalty-kick shootout victory over Christian County, but that’s just the most recent accomplishment for the well-rounded student-athlete.
This summer, Prit had the opportunity to participate in the Governor’s Scholar Program at Morehead State University, allowing him to spend five weeks with other outstanding students from around the state.
He describes his time at Morehead as one of the best experiences of his life, saying, “GSP allowed me to meet people from all over the state and allowed me as an individual to grow in a challenging, non-traditional way.”
“This program empowered me to think more creatively and learn that there is more to do in a regular classroom setting. I learned how to collaborate with others to take an integrative approach to problems and issues. This opportunity also gave me a sneak peek into ‘college life’ and taught me how it truly feels to be on your own for the first time. I enjoyed the environment and being able to meet so many new people, many of whom I am still in touch with.”
Prit’s performance in the classroom has been stellar throughout his high school career. He’s one of six valedictorians in his class at UHA, making A’s in every class on the way to an eye-popping 4.38 GPA.
He feels it might come as a surprise to his teacher, but Prit’s favorite subject is AP Calculus. While it’s the most difficult class he’s taken, he says he enjoys the challenge.
He plans to continue embracing challenges after graduation when he heads to the University of Kentucky, where he intends to study Biology and major in Pre-Med. Hopefully, medical school will follow, allowing him to pursue his dream of becoming a physician.
While his academic pursuits are time-consuming, athletics have also played a role in his life, providing balance and giving him “a family outside my house.” Prit points out, “From every excruciating practice to every adrenaline-pumping win, the team has gone through it together.”
In addition, he says, “Sports allow students to become excellent time managers and learn what it means to become a student-athlete. They have to attend every practice and game while also maintaining a high GPA.”
When Prit graduates next year and makes his way to Lexington, he’ll do so with the perspective and experience earned as a Blazer both on the field and in the classroom.
