One thing about Jordon Crichlow is that he puts other people first and believes in the importance of looking out for family and friends. “Growing up I’ve always looked out for my friends, if a friend needed my last dollar, they would get it,” Jordon stated in an essay. His desire to help others grew and even helped him in the long run. 
Jordon enjoys being able to give back to the community in a variety of ways. For example, he worked as a Youth Counselor at Camp Alkulana. “Helping people helps you see yourself in different ways and it helps you really just be confident,” Jordon said. As he worked as a counselor serving the youth, he enjoyed the feeling of making a difference. His experience as a counselor helped open his eyes to some of Richmond’s problems and ways they could be fixed. He also volunteered with the Environmental Club and the Boys and Girls Club.
His enjoyment of giving back even helped him as the junior class vice president when he led the most successful fundraiser of the year. The class decided to have a car show at Richmond Community. Along with helping with the organization, Jordon was able to help attract people to the event. His father, who is in a motorcycle club, brought other motorcycle friends and different car clubs came. Along with these funds, the event sold food and provided music. Overall, they were able to raise about $1000.
When he wasn’t volunteering or in school, Jordon enjoyed playing jazz music with different jazz bands and participating in the Mayor’s Youth Academy “Future Leaders Youth Council.” Ever since his band teacher recommended for him to play in the band, Jordon has played at different performances, concerts and events. He plans to continue being a part of a band in college and may consider joining a marching band. In high school, Jordon was also in Tri M National Music Honor Society and had an internship with the VCU Biomedical Engineering Lab. With all of his extracurricular work, Jordon still worked to maintain a 3.7 GPA.
This fall, Jordon will attend Hampton University to study electrical engineering. He chose this major because of his desire to create something innovative and see the results of his work. Jordon chose Hampton over other universities because of the financial package he was offered and the school’s beautiful setting. One lesson he learned from high school and will take to college is to “always be prepared for anything. Be prepared for the worst case scenario.”
While Jordon hopes to inspire others in the future, one of his own motivations has been his mother. “Her working hard inspires me. She took on two jobs not too long ago so she works tirelessly,” he said. “I work so she won’t have to work.” With experiences like with the Mayor’s Youth Academy, he is prepared to become a leader and continue helping others while following his goals. “While this may seem cliché, I really believe if everyone truly helped at least one person, we could create a better and safer world,” Jordon stated.
