South High junior Jeremy Amaya has always dreamed big, and with focus, passion, and a growing list of accomplishments, he’s well on his way to making those dreams a reality.
Jeremy plans to pursue a career in medicine and become an anesthesiologist. “When I was younger, I was in and out of hospitals with severe asthma,” he says. “The care I received made me feel safe. I want to be that person for someone else.”
His drive is inspired by his family. Both of his parents earned their degrees with honors and went on to complete master’s degrees in teaching. “They’ve shown me what it looks like to work hard and succeed,” he says. “Now, I want to be that example for my younger sisters.”
Passion beyond the classroom
Outside the classroom, Jeremy is passionate about music and community. He plays drums, sings in choir, and has been recognized by the Nebraska High School Theater Academy. He also founded a student club that blends dance, culture and connection. “It’s a way for students to connect with their roots and with each other,” he says.
He also represents students districtwide as part of the Omaha Public Schools student council. Alongside fellow ambassadors, he advocates for student needs and helps brainstorm solutions—like addressing funding gaps for extracurricular activities.
Jeremy also brings a deep commitment to science and research. Through the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) High School Alliance and the Summer Training in Anesthesia Research (STAR) Fellowship Program, he’s had the opportunity to work inside hospital labs and contribute to research.
Support that makes a difference
Jeremy first learned about College Possible during an advisement session at school. At first, he wasn’t sure he needed the extra help, but that quickly changed.
I’ve always been independent, but having someone right there at school who I could go to with questions made a huge difference,” he says. “Everyone in the program is so knowledgeable, and they’ve gone out of their way to meet with me and support me.”
Whether it’s navigating ACT prep, learning about scholarship opportunities, or just having someone to talk through his goals with, Jeremy sees College Possible as a resource that helps him stay focused and grounded. “They really care,” Jeremy says. “I’ve been able to learn so much and plan ahead with their help.”
Looking to the future, Jeremy is considering colleges in Nebraska like the University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Nebraska Lincoln, or UNMC—but he’s also exploring options abroad, including programs in Ireland, where he has family. Long term, he hopes to earn his medical degree, build trust with patients, and be part of the evolving landscape of medicine. “Change only happens when someone’s willing to put in the work,” he shares. “I want to be that someone.”
In five years, he sees himself finishing his bachelor’s degree, entering medical school, and continuing to find ways to give back, whether through medicine, community service, or mentorship. “I’ve been called to places of leadership, and I want to keep answering that call,” he says. “None of this would’ve been possible without the support I’ve had—my family, teachers, coworkers, friends, and College Possible. I’m so grateful.”
