news-record.com

Ashton Pemberton of High Point is not only the first in his family to go to college; he was offered full-ride scholarships from three universities.

“(My parents) definitely always had high standards for me, and I probably had even higher standards for myself,” said 17-year-old Pemberton, salutatorian of Middle College at GTCC Jamestown.

Pemberton chose Duke over UNC-Chapel Hill and High Point University. He’ll use a Gates Millenium Scholarship, which covers tuition at any school, instead of Duke’s offer because it won’t require him to do a work study.

He said Duke’s prestige, small classes and abundance of student clubs and organizations, as well as the work ethic among students, made that school the best fit for him.

“I felt like going to Duke would be a challenge. Everyone is focused,” he said. “Everyone’s determined.”

He hasn’t chosen a major, but is interested in political science, education and psychology. He is also considering going to law school.

Pemberton is heading to college with lots of ideas and dreams.

He hopes to one day start a scholarship foundation to help academically gifted students who can’t afford college.

“I feel like too many people have the gift and drive to go to college but don’t have the money,” Pemberton said.

When people in low-income neighborhoods can’t further their education, they’re not as empowered to improve their communities that are facing poverty and crime, he said. “I’m just trying to break the cycle.”

Pemberton’s interest in political science — and his acting skills — have led to some local fame for him. He’s made appearances as President Barack Obama impersonator at many churches across the Triad. He has the mannerisms — and the look — down for his brief, inspirational speeches as the commander in chief.

Pemberton is active at Calvary Christian Center in Greensboro, including its mime ministry. He also is president of the youth board of Sparrow’s Nest, a Greensboro organization that helps underserved youths through leadership initiatives. Its mission is to prevent crime and drug activity while developing students’ educational and artistic skills. It also focuses on building character.

He is the son of Rhonda and Greg Pemberton.

Contact Jamie Kennedy Jones at jamie.kennedy@news-record.com or
373-7088.