Faces of Xavier - Kevin Ko '15

Welcome to the first edition of the Admissions E-News “Faces of Xavier.” In each article, a Xavier student will be highlighted and will share his reasoning for his decision to come to Xavier, aspects of life as a Xavier student, and plans for life after Xavier. Kevin Ko ’15, a senior from the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is a computer programmer during his spare time. Kevin most recently released “NikeRadar,” an application that allows consumers to search and purchase the most coveted and newest Nike sneakers. Currently, Kevin has served as president of the Mock Trial and the interpretation portion of the Speech and Debate club. He is also involved in the JROTC, the Math Competition Club, the Xavier Blue Knight Band, National Honor Society and has participated in our Companions of Francis Xavier (CFX) trips to Tennessee and Mexico. I had the opportunity to sit down with Kevin and ask him some questions about his time inside and outside the walls of Xavier.

Tell me more about your work in the computer programming field. When did you first start programming? What are some of the benefits of developing this app?

I started programming when I was 11. When I was 14, I traveled to Harvard University to work with USGREENDATA.com. The connections that I made there were priceless and have helped me grow and develop as a computer programmer. Although I’ve developed other apps, NikeRadar is one of my many current projects. We have over one thousand subscribers and thirty one thousand followers on our Twitter page. Although I love programming, it’s not just about the profit. It’s about seeing that my work is impacting others in a positive light.

Why did you decide to come to Xavier?

I was looking for a school that was simultaneously diverse and well rounded. Xavier offers rigorous academics and a strong sense of community that I really liked. I also wanted to be involved in other activities rather than just working on my computer programming.

How has Xavier helped you to achieve your goals?

When I was preparing for the SAT II in Math, some of my teachers offered to stay after school every day and were always around to help. The teachers were dedicated to helping me succeed, and I could tell that the faculty would do anything they could to help.

What are your plans for life after Xavier?

I’m currently applying to MIT, Harvard, Stanford, Columbia, Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, and the University of Michigan to major in Bio-Technology. After working on my apps over the past few years, I’m also interested in working in business.
Each week, I ask students what is their “Son of Xavier” moment, a moment which reflects and describes the student’s time at Xavier.

What would you identify as your “Son of Xavier” moment?

Definitely would be my time on the CFX Mexico trip. After a six hour day, enjoying the delicious food offered by the family, and the aspect of community with both students and faculty, it just feels awesome.