RESERVE — Riverside Academy seventh grader Jeremy Jung is wise beyond his years, demonstrating maturity in his work ethic with a goal to someday study aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech University.

Jeremy’s fascination with aircraft led him to research college prospects. He recently took the ACT for the first time to get a head start in building toward a score worthy of scholarship offers.

Not yet 13, Jeremy had to register by mail and was barred from posting identification photos or viewing results online.

Reaching for the stars is nothing new for Jeremy. He’s held a spot on Riverside’s straight ‘A’ honor roll since kindergarten, simultaneously balancing academics with extracurricular activities.

According to Jeremy, striving for excellence is important because it is up to each individual to represent his or her school.

“To be a good student is everything,” Jeremy said. “It means representation for your school. It’s representation for your family, the clubs you are part of, your district, your state and even your country.”

Joining band is the most meaningful experience he’s had on campus, and he views it as more of a family than a club.

For the past few years, Jeremy has enjoyed playing saxophone, performing at competitions and volunteering at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home.

He has looked up to band director Darryl Clement since third grade.

“Mr. Clement is a very big inspiration to me everyday,” Jeremy said. “I want to work as hard as he does, because the amount he puts into everything amazes me. I want to be just like he is when I grow up.”

Clement described Jeremy as a self-motivated student and a joy to teach.

“A lot of what my job is involves motivating students and getting them to want to do the things that will progress them to the point of graduation and beyond,” Clement said, adding that is never been a concern with Jeremy.

“He doesn’t settle for mediocrity at all, and I think that’s what makes him a phenomenal person.”

Outside of band, Jeremy serves as secretary of Jr. BETA Club and is a first-year Robotics Club member.

He stays active on the middle school baseball team, where he plays second base.

His parents, Ron and Erin Jung, have been by his side every step of the way to provide him with motivation to work hard.

“They are proud of me with everything I do as long as I try my hardest,” Jeremy said. “They have always been there to support me.”