Khelon Brown (‘25) is graduating this May and has a path paved for success. He plans to attend Aims community college for a year or so, in order to acquire the necessary credits to transfer. Post Aims, Khelon plans to transfer to Northern Arizona University (NAU) in pursuit of a degree in computer science.

Although he had his eyes set on NAU, Khelon was also initially drawn to CSU. But, alas, Arizona called his name. Despite being 100% positive of his major, Khelon has decided to go wherever the wind takes him in terms of a minor. He’s not worried, though, because he knows he will figure it out. Although “figuring it out” can be the scary part of graduating, it can also be the most exciting part.

One of Khelon’s proudest accomplishments throughout his tenure at Mead is being on the football team four consecutive years. According to Khelon, it “makes you healthier as a person, but it also teaches you how to [deal with hard things].”

Being part of a team helped Brown find a sense of community amongst his football family, and he would like to shout out the entirety of Mead’s football coaching staff as a thank you.

On the topic of shoutouts— Khelon would also like to thank Mr. Palko for pointing him in the direction of computer science. Throughout high school, Khelon took many of Palko’s computer classes including Intro to App Development, Intro to Programming, Intro to Cybersecurity, and AP computer science. The biggest draw to these classes for Khelon was Palko’s dedication to providing students true creative freedom.

In terms of freshman advice, Khelon wants incoming freshmen to understand the importance of keeping their options open and caring about their grades, as well as socializing.

“Even if it’s uncomfortable, [and] some people are really good at it, whatever… but even if you aren’t good at it, it’s a life skill you’ll probably need at some point or another just to be able to talk.” Snaps to that Khelon.

We wish Khelon good luck at Aims and NAU and can’t wait to see him succeed.