Cole Murphy grew up in the DC Minnesota Avenue area and started with Spark the Journey in the spring of 2022. He is currently a senior at Phelps ACE High School.
Why did you decide to get involved with Spark the Journey?
I decided to get involved with Spark the Journey because my older brother was in Spark, and his mentor helped him throughout high school with grades and challenges. This persuaded me to join, get my mentor, and gain more experience and connections by meeting new people.
In what ways has Spark the Journey impacted your life?
Spark has impacted my life for the better by providing me with a mentor to assist me throughout my high school career, as well as helping my family with funds when needed. Spark has also introduced me to new companies and businesses which helps me make connections I may need later in life.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy writing poetry and playing piano.
What’s one accomplishment you’re most proud of?
My greatest accomplishment in high school has been doing something with my poetry. Before I would just write for myself and share with a small group, but now I perform at Busboys & Poets and other events where I’m booked.
What activities do you like to do with your mentor?
I enjoyed talking about sports and my overall life and health with my mentor because they were very understanding and easy to talk to.
What’s a dream you would like to achieve?
I would like to graduate high school and attend my dream college on a scholarship.
How is your mentor helping you achieve that dream?
Spark has been helping me achieve this dream by sending me scholarship blast emails, and also by supporting me with funds to pay my senior dues so I can focus on school.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned so far in your time with Spark?
The most important thing I’ve learned so far with Spark is to open your horizons and meet new people. Spark has taught me to take opportunities as they come, because you never know when they might come in handy.