“Having seen my own success in fashion, I was determined to return to school and make the best of an incredibly terrible and traumatic situation while I was incarcerated.”
Throughout primary school, Macdonald had wrestled with learning disabilities and found himself internalizing the idea that he was different and couldn't excel in school.
“When I arrived in prison, I was at a point in my life where I had processed that trauma and in turn developed a sense of self-worth that allowed me to love and see myself as worthy of doing well in school,” said Macdonald, “Removed from the constraints of a special education classroom and designation, which caused me to feel othered and, armed with this goal, I blossomed as a scholar.”
One year before his release, Macdonald applied to GS with his sister’s help. He continued his studies while waiting for both his release and an admissions decision.
“In many ways, GS saved my life as it provided me with a clear goal to work towards while I was incarcerated,” said Macdonald.
Soon after, he received the news from his mom that he had been admitted and could begin his studies at Columbia when he returned home. While excited for this next step, Macdonald also recognized the privilege that allowed him to make the transition from prison to the Ivy League.