D’Anfernee Cush

Like many of our students, family plays a central role in D’Anfernee Cush’s life. D’Anfernee’s mother wanted him to stay in-state for college, but gave him the option to leave New York if he earned a full scholarship—and guess what? He did just that!

Meet D’Anfernee Cush, a member of ULC’s class of 2024 and a QuestBridge Scholar, attending the prestigious Dartmouth College. Cush chose Dartmouth not only for its academic excellence, but also for its environment and the endless opportunities it offers. One of the things he loves most about Dartmouth is it’s campus: all buildings are within walking distance and the fall scenery is breathtaking.

Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, D’Anfernee—known to his friends as “D Money”—is taking on his first semester with focus and determination. His goal is to achieve a GPA that matches the dedication he demonstrated in high school, where he graduated with an impressive weighted GPA of 4.26. He’s committed to putting in the work, setting high academic standards for himself, and making the most of his education. 

Despite the demanding academic load D’Anfernee is mindful of balance. He’s learned that college comes with more freedom, which brings both opportunities and responsibilities. His advice to Uncommon students is, “In college, you have a lot of free time, so enjoy it, but always remember your priorities. At Dartmouth, you get your assignments for the entire semester upfront, so the best strategy is to stay ahead of your work.” D’Anfernee’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when ambition, family support, and hard work come together, and he’s setting an example for others to follow as they navigate their own paths to success.