Portrait of Ibikari Legg-Jack.
APRIL 14, 2022 | BY NATE PROCTOR
Ibikari Legg-Jack was inspired by President’s Community Scholars to contribute to scientific knowledge through medical research. He’s now a medical student at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Ibikari graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 2020 with his bachelor’s in biochemistry, summa cum laude. During his time in PCS, he was introduced to his current fiancée, Marley. We caught up with Ibikari to reflect on PCS’s impact on his life and what he’s been up to since graduating.
Q: How did PCS impact your undergraduate experience?
Ibikari: PCS allowed me to internalize the idea that each citizen has an obligation to serve the community that they are a part of. As an undergraduate student, PCS inspired me to volunteer at youth community centers, help raise money for local charities, and contribute to scientific knowledge through medical research.
Q: What were some unique or exciting experiences you had in PCS?
Ibikari: The most exciting experience I had in PCS was being introduced to my fiancée, Marley. PCS attracts such quality people, and I’m fortunate enough to spend the rest of my life with the best.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to the current and incoming PCS classes?
Ibikari: PCS allows you to sit side-by-side with some of the brightest and most innovative minds in the state. Cherish and use that time wisely. Establish friendships and partnerships with your peers that can be used to advance your community now, and in the future.
Q: How have you continued to give back to your community as an adult?
Ibikari: During my time at the University of Pennsylvania, I have volunteered at the Center for Surgical Health, a free clinic in Philadelphia that helps provide surgical consultations to the community. Since the fall of 2020, we have helped 98 patients complete procedures they would otherwise have not been able to afford.
Q: What are some words you live by?
Ibikari: When I wake up every day, it is important that I do two things — love others and work hard.
Q: What would you say to your fellow PCS alumni and parents that would encourage them to give on Giving Day?
Ibikari: PCS teaches students that service is a lifestyle, not just a one-day event. Each dollar you can give is an investment in not only the students, but the communities that surround each student throughout their entire lives.
President’s Community Scholars is composed of students who want to make a difference in their community. President Joseph Harroz Jr. recognizes the community service efforts of our high school's best and brightest scholars through the President's Community Scholars scholarship. Administered by the Office of Leadership and Volunteerism from the Division of Student Affairs, PCS provides high-achieving high school students with the best possible freshman experience through service to local, state, and global communities.
