November 02, 2026
City Academy 2020
Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School 2026
Rochester Institute of Technology 2030
For Nevin Hill, some of the most meaningful experiences of his secondary school years have come from stepping outside of his comfort zone and embracing new opportunities.
While attending MICDS, Nevin explored his interest in theater, particularly the production side of performances. During a Winter Term project, that interest took him to New York City, where he immersed himself in the arts scene, visited museums, attended Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, and participated in workshops with professional actors.
Now, Nevin is preparing for another new experience as he heads to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to continue exploring his interests in gaming and technology.
As Nevin considered his college options, City Academy’s L.E.A.P. program helped him and his family take a closer look at what his next chapter could hold. Through a new City Academy College Visit Pilot Program for high school seniors, Nevin visited RIT and experienced the campus in person.
He attended a Special Interest Housing Fair, connected with students and alumni, and learned more about RIT’s gaming programs and opportunities for students to develop, publish, market, and license their own video games. His family also explored the university’s co-op program and met with a financial aid advisor.
For Nevin’s mother, Devona Howard, the experience offered something that online research and phone conversations simply could not.
“This experience was so eye-opening and actually helped ease my nerves as a parent, but gave Nevin a sense of peace and comfort getting to know his environment beforehand,” she shared. “There are not enough words to thank City Academy for this wonderful opportunity and your continued commitment and dedication to Nevin’s success!”
As he prepares for college, Nevin has also remained connected to City Academy. Through the school’s Pen Pal Program, he exchanges letters with a current student throughout the school year, offering him an opportunity to connect with and encourage a student following in his footsteps.
From exploring the arts in New York City to discovering what his college experience could look like at RIT, Nevin has continued to embrace new opportunities while maintaining a connection to the community that helped shape him. As he takes his next step, City Academy remains part of his story — and Nevin continues to be part of ours.