Profiles of a CCISD Graduate: Desmond Adjei

A good leader is described as someone who communicates effectively, inspires those around them and helps to make a difference, all while remaining humble and self-aware. Those who know Desmond Adjei would agree that these characteristics fit him perfectly.

“A lot of it comes from my mom because she has always been independent and hardworking,” Desmond said. “I always wanted to be strong for her because she never gave up.”

He also naturally fell into leadership positions throughout sports, choir and extracurricular activities throughout his time in intermediate school and eventually at Clear Falls High School.

“When I was little, I would always have a basketball in my hand,” he said. “I loved the team aspect, but you also have to be responsible for your own game. Playing on varsity opened up a lot of doors to lead my team.”

Singing is also something Desmond has been doing since the moment he could talk. He got involved in choir at Mossman Elementary and continued his love of singing throughout all four years of high school.

“Choir is another passion where you are in charge of how you sound while also supporting the other students around you,” he said.

Desmond has never been afraid to try new things and work for what he wants, so he decided during his senior year to try out for the high school musical.

“I found out we were doing ‘High School Musical,’ which combined both my love of basketball and singing,” he said “It was perfect. My friends also really encouraged me to try out.”

He ended up getting the lead in the musical as Troy, the popular varsity basketball captain who eventually tries out for the lead in the winter musical.

“I was so happy I got the role, but it also came with a lot of fear,” Desmond said. “I guess you could say I was hard on myself because I wanted to do my best for my other castmates.”

He said being a Troubadour through the choir program for two years definitely helped with his dancing and singing coordination. However, having to do those two things and learn the most lines in the musical at the same time was definitely a challenge.

“There was one number where we even had to sing, dance and dribble the basketball at the same time,” he said. “But it all ended up working out in the end. I am really glad I pushed myself to do it.”

Desmond was juggling musical rehearsals, basketball practice and multiple AP courses all at the same time during his senior year. He was also voted as the class Vice President.

“I feel like time management is the most important thing when juggling multiple things,” he said. “I definitely fell short a few times, but I had to keep going because I had the commitments, and I didn’t want to let anyone down. Never let the fear of failure hold you back and don’t limit yourself.”

His junior year, Desmond was also chosen to attend the American Legion’s Texas Boys State program. It is described as a participatory program where a select number of students become a part of a pseudo government that teaches them about different aspects of local, county and state leadership.

“The thing I like most about it was the people I was surrounded by were great kids from around the state,” he said. “I learned the importance of human connection despite whatever background you come from.”

He ended up being elected as the Governor of his Boys State class during the session after campaigning and connecting with students from across Texas.

“It was cool to see how other people my age feel politically and how they approached the Boys State system,” he said. “We all had respect and trust for one another.”

Respect and trust are two things Desmond said that definitely have gotten him to where he is today.

“I treat others how I want to be treated,” he said. “People can be so hateful, but what’s the point in making enemies. Being kind and having people support you can take you to places you never thought were possible. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the connections I have made.”

Desmond has future plans to get into biotechnology and also continue his love of music through new opportunities after graduation.

“I know whatever I do, I want get to work with people from all walks of life and do my part to make my mark on the world,” he said.