NEWARK, N.J. – When Michael Ancasi opened the Cornell University admissions portal on Ivy Day, he was emotionally prepared for another rejection.

The 18-year-old Science Park High School senior had already worked his way through a series of disappointing decisions from highly selective colleges. But when confetti suddenly appeared on his laptop screen, Ancasi was stunned into silence.

“I really couldn’t speak,” Ancasi recalled. “I couldn’t process what I was seeing.”

Moments later, he ran to his mother and gave her a big hug.

“She asked me, ‘Is everything okay?’” he said. “Then I told her Cornell accepted me.”

This fall, Ancasi will attend Cornell University’s College of Engineering, where he plans to major in chemical engineering.

For Ancasi, who attended Ridge Street School before enrolling at Science Park High School, the acceptance represents the realization of years of hard work, perseverance, and family support.

“My parents sacrificed so much for me,” Ancasi said. “Getting into Cornell feels like repaying them for all the hard work they put into helping me succeed.”

Today, both of Ancasi’s parents work long hours in the printing industry while supporting their family and encouraging his academic ambitions.

Ancasi said his interest in chemical engineering was partly inspired by his father, who studied chemical engineering. But his own passion for chemistry truly developed during his junior year at Science Park High School under the guidance of chemistry teacher, Christopher Kirby.

“It just clicked for me,” Ancasi said. “Chemistry felt like the perfect balance of science, math, and problem-solving.”

That passion only deepened this year while taking AP Chemistry with teacher Henry Hopkins, whom Ancasi credits with helping him feel fully prepared for the AP exam.

Outside the classroom, Ancasi participated in a yearlong internship with Audible, where he explored product development, finance, marketing, and design. He also serves as treasurer of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish National Honor Society.

Superintendent León praised Ancasi for transforming determination and curiosity into academic achievement.

“Michael’s story represents everything we cultivate in Newark Public Schools — resilience, gratitude, academic excellence, and a commitment to creating opportunities for oneself, one’s family and community,” Superintendent León said. “His acceptance to Cornell University is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of his hard work, the support of his family, the dedication of his teachers, and a testament of what is possible.”

Board of Education President Hasani K. Council said Ancasi’s achievement serves as an inspiration for students throughout the district.

“Michael’s journey reminds our students that their circumstances do not define their potential,” Council said. “His story is proof that talent, determination, and perseverance can open doors to the nation’s most prestigious universities. We are extremely proud of him.”

Science Park High School Principal Darleen L. Gearhart said Ancasi exemplifies the spirit of the school community.

“Michael has distinguished himself through his intellect, humility, and determination,” Gearhart said. “He approaches every opportunity with seriousness and curiosity, and we know he will thrive at Cornell and beyond.”

As he prepares to leave Newark for Ithaca, N.Y., Ancasi says he hopes younger students will learn one lesson from his experience: never disqualify yourself from opportunities before even trying.

“You don’t lose anything from trying,” Ancasi said. “Apply where you want to go, even if you think it’s impossible. You never know what might happen.”