Avaneque was the 2019 Brilliant Minds Benefit student speaker and is a member of Princeton University’s Class of 2024.

Q: What have you learned from your time with Minds Matter?
Avaneque: I have learned the importance of seizing every opportunity. Minds Matter made it possible for me to learn about different industries and take advantage of unique opportunities.

Q: What was your favorite Minds Matter moment?
Avaneque: In junior year Writing & Critical Thinking, we did a program-wide activity to shoot a commercial. It was helping to build our persuasive-writing skills, but was also so wonderful to participate in something silly and fun with our entire class.

 Q: How has Minds Matter impacted you?
Avaneque: Minds Matter was a space where I felt unconditionally welcomed. I wasn’t expected to be anything other than my authentic self. I’m going to hold that feeling with me in every space I walk into.

Q: Where are you going to college and what are you hoping to study?
Avaneque: I am going to Princeton University to study Political Science. I am working towards becoming a civil rights attorney!

Q: What are you most looking forward to in college?
Avaneque: I’m most looking forward to choosing my classes. I’m excited for the independence to dive into coursework that I’m passionate about, and pass over some subjects that were required in high school.