Newark Friends Secure Brown University Admissions

Two seniors from the Newark School of Data Science and Technology received admission offers from Brown University in the same selection cycle. The students, who have been friends since age seven, learned of their acceptances simultaneously and celebrated the achievement together.

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The Newark School of Data Science and Technology, a public high school in Newark, New Jersey, emphasizes data-driven curricula. In the graduating class referenced, the top two academic positions were occupied by the friends, each maintaining a record of straight A and A+ grades throughout high school.

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Bryan Oko identifies as a first-generation, low-income student whose parents “worked hard to get me where I am today.” Morakinyo attributes much of his motivation to his mother, who “always pushed me to be the best version of me, work hard and always be kind to people around me.” Their long-standing friendship has combined competition with mutual encouragement, contributing to their academic success.

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Both students hold the No. 1 and No. 2 spots in their class. Upon acceptance, each was offered a scholarship from Brown University, though the exact amounts were not disclosed. The scholarships reduce the overall cost of attendance but do not eliminate all expenses.

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During a recent campus visit, the students learned that the total cost of attendance at Brown—including room and board—is approximately $100,000. Despite receiving scholarships, they expressed concern about covering the remaining balance, indicating that financial considerations remain a significant factor in their upcoming college plans.

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The pair hope their experience will inspire other students, particularly those from first-generation or low-income backgrounds, to pursue elite higher-education opportunities. Their public statements emphasize goal-setting, perseverance, and self-advocacy as essential components of academic advancement.

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• “I got into Brown,” — Bryan Oko, Senior, Newark School of Data Science and Technology

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• “Another part of it would be my parents. I am first-generation, low-income. They've worked hard to get me where I am today,” — Bryan Oko

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• “My mom has always pushed me to the be the best version of me work hard and always be kind to people around me,” — Morakinyo, Senior, Newark School of Data Science and Technology

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• “Actually $100k that includes room and boarding,” — Morakinyo

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• “Honestly, if you have a goal, you have an idea, no matter what happens. Try your hardest to actually achieve it,” — Morakinyo

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Both students plan to enroll at Brown University in the upcoming academic year. Their upcoming transition includes finalizing financial aid arrangements and preparing for relocation to Providence, Rhode Island.

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