At just 18, Aajee Muhammad-Russum is a powerful example of perseverance, leadership, and heart. A senior at Excel Academy North, Muhammad-Russum will attend Howard University this fall, supported by a merit-based scholarship that opened doors once thought closed.
She is the first in her family to attend college and she’s doing it with purpose. “This is really important to me and for my mom and my sisters. We didn’t start at this point. We didn’t have help, and I just want to give them what we never had.”
The oldest of six sisters she takes her role seriously. Raised by a single mother, she learned early what responsibility, sacrifice and strength look like. Her mother’s resilience became the blueprint for her ambition.
“My choices affect my sisters,” she said. “I want to be the example they can follow. I didn’t think college was possible for us, but I held on and realized I could make it happen.”
Muhammad-Russum transferred to Excel North just three months ago from another school in Philadelphia but quickly stood out as a dedicated and driven student. She was embraced by the school community, which she described as “accommodating, supportive and invested in how students feel.”
She was accepted to multiple colleges and awarded several scholarships, but her heart was always set on Howard University.
“I wanted to experience HBCU life while still being close to home,” she said. “Howard was my top choice. When I finally got accepted and saw the scholarship offer, I cried. I was overjoyed.”
Muhammad-Russum will study nursing, with a specific focus on midwifery. Inspired by the powerful Black women in her life and motivated by a deep desire to advocate for Black mothers, she sees nursing as a way to give back and move forward.
She credits her success to sheer determination. Throughout her academic journey, she refused to give in to peer pressure or burnout. “I just made myself do every assignment, no matter how tired I was. I kept pushing myself.”
During her time at Excel North, Muhammad-Russum found mentors who made a difference. She credits teacher Mr. Haase for recognizing her strengths and helping her prepare for college.
“He gave me the space to challenge myself, like working on a multi-page essay and taught me skills that will help me in college.”
She wants younger students to know there’s no rush to grow up. “Take your time. Don’t grow up too fast. Live your childhood. Go to prom. Get involved. Try leadership. Try something new.”
Outside of academics, Muhammad-Russum enjoys drawing, baking for family events and volunteering. One of her proudest moments was returning to the Boys and Girls Club where she grew up. “Helping kids who were in the same spot as me, that was really cool.”
She knows into a new chapter will be scary, but one that she is ready for. “I don’t know anyone else going to Howard, but I’m excited to meet new people, build relationships, and take this on myself. I’m ready.”