We are proud to share the exciting news that Amer Yousef, a senior at River City Science Academy Middle-High, has been accepted to the University of Florida, one of the nation’s most respected and prestigious universities.

Amer’s high school journey has been truly outstanding. Throughout his time at RCSA, he has demonstrated exceptional academic dedication by completing 16 dual enrollment courses and 9 Advanced Placement (AP) classes, earning an impressive 4.8413 weighted GPA at the time of his admission.

His commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. Amer’s active involvement in extracurricular activities, strong leadership qualities, and clear sense of purpose have made him a remarkable student and an inspiring role model within our school community.

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Amer for a short interview to learn more about his experiences, future goals, and reflections on this exciting milestone:

What was your first reaction when you found out you got accepted to University of Florida?

The first thing I wanted to do was eat. I opened the application with my mother in the parking lot of Sakura Buffet and the relief from seeing the acceptance just made me yearn for some sushi. With UF being as honorable and unpredictable as it is, knowing that I actually accomplished this felt like freedom.

What do you plan to study at UF, and what excites you most about it?

I plan to study mechanical engineering at UF to gain basic foundational knowledge in the field in order to apply it to career paths such as AI or Robotics. I think engineering and college in general really excites me because it’s challenging at a high level. I love the challenge, I love to learn and ask questions. Engineering will mentally challenge me and make me question reality itself and that’s what I love.

What activities or experiences do you think helped your application stand out?

As I ranked SeaPerch, (underwater robotics), my job, Model UN and rhizome as my top 4 on commonapp, I would confidently say these helped my application. I was able to become shift leader in a few weeks and I held captain positions in both SeaPerch and Model UN, clubs which I have been in for a while. Therefore with the commitment and involvement I showed in such unique clubs I think my application was ideal.


What role did River City Science Academy play in shaping your academic journey?

The role that RCSA played was offering me an experience like no other that made me who I was. I was able to participate in such high-level classes that pushed me and allowed me to ask thousands of questions. I was able to participate in innovative clubs and most importantly interact with such amazing people. The diversity of the student base at RCSA is one of my favorite aspects of this school because I am able to gain valuable experiences with everyone. The many opportunities RCSA offered have played a key role in shaping who I am today.

How would you describe the learning environment at River City Science Academy?

The environment here at RCSA is amazingly diverse and innovative. The environment we are offered allows us to explore life in all sorts of ways through valuable teacher interactions, rigorous classes, and enriching clubs. The environment is full of exclusive opportunities that definitely make education an amazing journey for all.

Were there any teachers or mentors who had a big impact on you?

I would love to say that when it came to my classes that Mr. Barindik and Ms Sloan had a huge impact on me. Mr. B taught me algebra 2 in 9th grade and AP Pre-Calc in 10th and the high-level sophistication and education he brought made me love math more than ever. In addition, Ms Sloan is someone who really invites unique thinking and lets me.. Be me.. Which makes her classes one of my favorites. However, I could write about many teachers I have had, but a special thanks goes out to these two.

What advice would you give to students dreaming of top universities?

When we went to the UF tour we were asked, “Who do we compare your application to?” We were all hesitant at first but I decided to just say, “us.” What this means is that when it comes to applications, they are looking for what you did with the resources you had. This doesn’t mean to wage war against your classmates, it means to use your opportunities wisely. When RCSA offers clubs, go join some. When RCSA gives you the opportunity to take numerous AP or Dual Enrollments, be bold and take them. Make the most of what you have, and top universities will see that.

How do you hope to make a difference in the world through your education?

The difference that I hope to make is to simply just give everyone an experience worth remembering. At the end of the day we are all in this together, and what I strive to do is show people their worth no matter who they are. I may not be able to help millions but I truly plan to at least brighten someone’s day at the minimum reminding them there’s always good in life.

About the University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF), founded in 1853 in Gainesville, is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the United States and the top-ranked in Florida. UF is consistently placed among the top public universities nationwide, serving over 61,000 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs. With 16 colleges, more than 120 undergraduate majors, and over 250 graduate degree options, UF is known for academic excellence, world-class research, and strong student outcomes.