Coming off a historic academic season with a whopping 5.2 GPA, Trinity Prep five-star mathlete Andrew Gao has received numerous Division I offers for his academic prowess.
Over his career at Trinity Prep, Gao averaged 100 hand raises per class, a 110% test average and scored a 1610 on the SAT on his first attempt. Gao was named an all-pro Florida mathlete, as well as being ranked #10 in the nation for his extracurriculars.
Gao has received offers to take his academic talents to the next level from nearly every academic institution in the country, most notably receiving offers from all of the top 25 ranked institutions by US News.
When asked how he attained this level of academic prowess, Gao cleverly noted, “to compete as an academic weapon at this magnitude, it takes a lot of mental fortitude.”
Gao’s mental strength to continue challenging himself to be a better student constantly is admirable, but along w ith strength, Gao has had incredible discipline from a young age.
“Growing up, things were different for me,” Gao said. “I was creating passion projects, learning theoretical calculus and mastering organic chemistry while my peers were learning how to ride bikes, playing catch with their fathers and having sleepovers with their friends.”
In addition to his academic talent, Gao also possesses a quality not often seen in this generation of academic talents: selflessness. Gao attributes his successes to his longtime coach and mentor, UCF professor and Trinity Preparatory School Math department chair Donald Worcester, formally known as Dr. Sauce.
“Honestly, I don’t think I’d be where I am today without Dr. Sauce,” Gao said. “He’s been with me since the beginning and has never failed to recognize and hone my talent. His wisdom has provided me with the foundation to flourish, both in and out of the classroom.”
Despite his overwhelming success, Gao is still hungry for more, with lofty aspirations for the future.
“I hope my academic career doesn’t end following my undergraduate career,” Gao said. “I aspire to be drafted into a top-ranked Ph.D. program and eventually conduct groundbreaking research to land myself in the academic hall of fame with all the greats that I look up to, like Newton, Einstein, Pythagoras, and Plato.”
As of right now, Gao has yet to make up his mind on where he wants to take his talents. With so many options to choose from, Gao wants to make his decision methodically and consider many variables.
“It’s a dream come true to be in the position that I’m in with all of these amazing offers,” Gao said. “One of my main deciding factors is research. To accomplish my goals at the next level, I need access to top-ranked academic facilities that will provide me with copious opportunities to conduct research.”
In addition to research, Gao hopes to attend an institution where he will receive the proper coaching necessary to continue being the weapon he is.
“Dr. Sauce has been an integral part of my academic success, making me realize that coaching is a huge part of this decision,” Gao said. “I want to go somewhere where coaches will both recognize my talent and consistently challenge me.”
As selfless as he is, all of Gao’s research, dedication, and talent is directed to a sole purpose.
“At the end of the day, it’s about making the world a better place,” Gao said. “I hope someday my research becomes beneficial to society. I hope to encourage future academic weapons to use their talents for the betterment of the world. I aspire to be a role model for future generations of scholars to stay true to their purpose and remain dedicated to their work.”
