FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Saiyd Omari Harvin, and I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. I'm the middle child of 3. I've been told that I'm very outgoing and easy to talk to, even though I consider myself a loner. I enjoy listening to music, drawing, and playing video games with my friends online. When I'm not
spending time by myself, I can usually be found on the field, mat or track.
In high school, I was a 3 time letter-man in football, wrestling and track and field. I completed my high school athletic career being named a football All-Star for the East vs. West 22 year, and I also received an honorable mention for 1st team offense. I defended my title as the 175lb weight class city champion in wrestling for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. My final distinction in my high school athletic career consisted of me becoming the CMSD outdoor city champion in the 400m. I also advanced to the district and regional competitions in the 200m, 400m and 4x200m.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
This question may be difficult for some to answer, but I'm grateful that I've had many idealistic examples.
The person that contributed greatly to my decision to pursue STEM, was my high school and college algebra professor, Mr. Kurtz. Taking his class showed me how exciting math can be.
Mr. Kurtz gave off an energy and aura for an accepting learning environment, that thrived on the idea of questions and assistance. He always made sure the class understood that although math can be difficult, it is not impossible and that we were all capable of doing it. All it took was a "can do" attitude and remembering that we could accomplish whatever we put your mind to it. I've used that thought process throughout my final years of high school, especially when I wanted to give up on assignments or tasks.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
As I stated previously, I like to think of myself as a loner and an introvert; but one fun fact most people don't know is that I love to do community service. I get so much enjoyment in helping others and making their day a little easier and brighter. Some community service activities I've participated in include packing up donation boxes at the food bank, helping out at HBCU college fairs and informationals with my mother, and participating in my former high school's mentorship program as a big brother to our adopted elementary school.
Another fun fact is that I will be a part of the second generation in my family to attend college. And the college I chose to attend is the rival to my mother's Alma Mater.
Hear from Saiyd about the importance of attending an HBCU in the video below.
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