Dajanae “Data” Dawkins’s Testimonial

Former Immaculate Conception High School Student and Member of A-QuEST Cohort 41 Endorses

Finding A-QuEST was like discovering an oasis after months of wandering without hope.

When I first applied to university, I was completely unprepared. I knew very little about the college-admissions process or the many practical details involved, and I was rejected by every university to which I applied. Out of sheer desperation, I reached out to countless people online, hoping that someone would point me in the right direction. Dr Dennis Minott was the only person who called me back.

One thing I shall never forget is his telling me that he already knew who I was because he had researched my academic background. I was genuinely taken aback; I had not realised that I could even be “Googled”. That first conversation felt as though God had extended His hand and said, “Here is your second chance. Here is your olive branch.” For the first time in months, I felt hopeful again.

Joining Cohort 41 of A-QuEST completely changed the trajectory of my university journey. One of the first things Dr Minott told me was that, if I wished to pursue Economics, I needed to strengthen my mathematical foundation. He recommended several courses that would help me to do precisely that. Although some of them—particularly the quantitative courses—were challenging, they made a real difference and prepared me far better than I had expected.

Before A-QuEST, I knew almost nothing about the SAT or ACT. Dr Minott introduced us to both examinations, provided practice materials and workbooks, and helped us to understand how each fitted into the admissions process. Although I ultimately sat only the SAT, I remain grateful that he exposed me to both options and helped me to appreciate the opportunities they could create.

One of the things I appreciated most was that I never felt alone. Whenever I was confused or uncertain, I knew that I could call or message Dr Minott. I remember preparing my university list and asking for his opinion. He reviewed it carefully with me, recommended some institutions, advised me against others, and explained his reasoning. The university I eventually chose was one he had strongly encouraged me to consider.

When I first received my financial-aid package, I was grateful, but it covered less than half of my tuition. I assumed that this was the end of the conversation. However, with my mother’s encouragement and Dr Minott’s guidance, I learnt that financial-aid offers can sometimes be reconsidered when a student approaches the process thoughtfully and presents a well-supported case.

He guided me through the strategy, helped me to understand how to advocate for myself, and encouraged me to make the request. As a result, the university awarded me an additional US$17,000 in annual scholarship funding, bringing my total award to approximately three-quarters of my tuition and other fees included in the comprehensive package.

That experience taught me the importance of asking appropriate questions, advocating for oneself, and having a knowledgeable person in one’s corner. Without Dr Minott’s guidance, I would never have known that such an outcome was even possible.

My gratitude also extends to Dr Nordia “Wendy” Thomas. She guided us through the practical realities of preparing for university: what to expect before arriving on campus, how to navigate the application process, and the many important details that few people think to explain.

During application season, there were late-night texts, early-morning messages, conversations during holidays, and countless rounds of feedback on essays and supplemental responses. Every draft became stronger because Dr Minott and Dr Thomas were willing to invest so much time and care in us.

What stood out most was how personal the guidance felt. Dr Minott encouraged us to prepare a personal inventory—a detailed reflection on our achievements, experiences, interests and identities beyond our grades. That exercise helped me to present myself far more authentically than the Common Application alone could have allowed. Instead of merely listing accomplishments, I learnt how to tell my story.

Even when I doubted myself, they did not. At one point, I worried that my SAT score was not good enough. Dr Minott never made me feel inadequate. He simply gave me honest advice, encouraged me to continue improving if I wished to do so, and even offered to help offset some of the cost of retaking the examination. That degree of generosity and genuine care is something I shall never forget.

The happy Hastings family (from left) dad Lynval; children Okera, Jabari and Amara; and mom Heather after Jabari's admission into Stanford University following A-QuEST College Advising . (Photos: Bryan Cummings)

I would wholeheartedly recommend A-QuEST to any student who is serious about studying abroad or preparing for university. The programme does far more than prepare students for standardised examinations; it teaches them how to approach the entire admissions process strategically.

From selecting suitable universities and understanding what admissions officers seek, to strengthening one’s academic profile, refining essays and always having someone available when uncertainty arises, A-QuEST provides knowledgeable and compassionate guidance at every stage.

Looking back, I realise that A-QuEST did not merely help me to gain admission to university. It gave me another chance when I believed that I had run out of options.

I am profoundly grateful to Dr Dennis Minott and Dr Nordia “Wendy” Thomas for believing in me, investing in my future and helping me to reach a destination that once seemed impossible. I can honestly say that, without their support, I would not now be preparing to begin university this autumn.

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