Whiz Kid of the Week: Joseph Drumgold

Joseph Drumgold is 18 years old and a senior at Mount Vernon High School.  He may still be in his teens, but he’s wise beyond his years, something the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce recognized when it was time to hand out scholarships.

Joseph was one of six area students and the only student at Mount Vernon High School to receive one of the Chamber’s $2,000 scholarships.  Joseph says the money will come in handy in the fall when he begins his freshman year at Hampton University.

Joseph had to write an essay to win the scholarship so he focused his on what he wants to study in college. Unlike a lot of 18 year-olds, Joseph has his coursework all mapped out.

“I want to study business and biology,” Joseph said.  “I want to open a company to benefit children with autism.”

Joseph says he will most likely open a facility that provides therapy for autistic children.  His younger brother, who has autism, is his inspiration.

“Some of his difficulties are with his social skills, he has to work harder to understand schoolwork and I just want to help kids that have behavioral issues,” said Joseph.

When Joseph isn’t hitting the books in preparation for college, he’s quite the athlete.  He played football and baseball for MVHS and also coaches and umpires for Little League.

 “I like to be a positive role model for the children.  They ask me questions and I try to tell them how best to do things and how to handle situations,” Joseph said.

Joseph said working with young people is one of his greatest passions because he likes to be someone for kids to look up to. Now, just months away from the start of college, Joseph once again has his eye on the future.

“I’m mostly looking forward to working hard, getting good grades and finishing school so I can help people who need help,” Joseph said.