Meet Jeremy Yagoda, OCSD alumnus, Class of 2019.

Jeremy has many fond memories from his time at OCSD and shared that it’s difficult to pinpoint just one. What stands out most to him is how much his teachers—from kindergarten through senior year—genuinely cared about their students. He recalls how they consistently checked in and made every effort to support him and his peers in any way they could, creating an environment where he always felt encouraged and supported.

He also remembers the strong sense of unity within the student body. Whether coming together to support one another during difficult times, such as the loss of a classmate, or standing up for causes at both the local and national level, Jeremy reflects on a student community that was engaged, compassionate, and ready to take action.

Following his graduation from high school, Jeremy attended UNC Charlotte, where he earned a degree in Political Science with a minor in Legal Studies in 2023. He returned the following year to complete a second degree in Criminal Justice, graduating in 2024. He is currently in his first year (1L) at Elon University School of Law.

After graduating from UNC Charlotte in 2023, Jeremy joined the U.S. Peace Corps and served in Rwanda as an education volunteer for nearly two years, living independently in a rural village. During his service, he worked as a local school teacher and led impactful community initiatives, including the construction of a multi-use sports court and the facilitation of a village forum. Notably, he also spearheaded a successful effort to eliminate corporal punishment at the school where he taught.

Upon returning to the United States, Jeremy began working as a Board and Grants Specialist for the Foundation For The Carolinas, one of the five largest nonprofit community foundations in the country, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals across North and South Carolina.

After completing law school, Jeremy plans to pursue a career as a prosecutor, with the long-term goal of running for public office.

To future graduates, Jeremy offers this valuable advice: "Set long-term goals and make a real plan to reach them. It can feel overwhelming to decide what you want, especially when you’re young or unsure, but choosing a direction is one of the most important things you can do. Your life will reflect the choices you make and the risks you’re willing to take.

Don’t sell yourself short. Nothing is out of reach if you’re willing to work hard and stay consistent. If you’ve been thinking about moving somewhere new, do it. If you’re unhappy in your job, quit it. If there’s a hobby or interest you’ve always wanted to try, start it. Apply for the job even if you’re not sure you’ll get it. You lose nothing by trying.

There will always be reasons not to do something. It’s easy to stay comfortable. Instead, focus on the reasons you should take the chance. Life rarely feels perfectly certain before you act. Life always has a way of working itself out."

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