By Patrick Brady ’26
The week before my journey at Brother Rice started I received devastating news. My mom had cancer. It could have tanked my journey, but it didn’t. During my senior year, I accomplished my biggest goal of becoming an Illinois State Scholar.
It feels like yesterday that I was being pulled out of class and told I could have extensions if I needed them. I never took them. I could have crumbled, but I didn’t.
Over the last nine months, I have enjoyed the greatest year of my life. Some of my best memories have been in student sections of big games at home and away, and walking to games with my friends and seeing the celebrations after big wins.
Broadcasting BRTV games including a Joe Niego game winner was the excitement that made the year great. Seeing where my friends are going to college has taught me how great of an education I have received.
My family has sacrificed so much for me to attend Brother Rice and countless hours driving me to games and a lot of money. My parents believe in a Catholic education, and the mission, and men that they create.
Brother Rice has and will always be my home. The impact teachers have made in my life is immense. I will never forget the friends I have made and continue the Rice Legacy along with my families.
I have loved the friends and memories I have made over the last four years, but it is time. Next year I will attend Creighton University and study economics. In the future, I hope to run election campaigns or be a chief of staff.
