Jayrah Bostic had already packed a lot of college-level experience into his education before he entered the nuclear engineering program at South Carolina State University.
As valedictorian of the High School for Health Professions Class of 2025, the Orangeburg resident graduated with a 5.08 GPA and simultaneously earned the Certificate of General Studies Curriculum Completion from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College through the Early College Program.
With that résumé in hand, Bostic was a natural fit for SC State’s Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College. He was recently inducted as one of the college’s nine 2025 Clyburn Scholars. He is also an Honors College Presidential Scholar.
“Driven, disciplined, and deeply connected to his roots, Jayrah Bostic embodies the next generation of Bulldog Scholars, leaders who combine intellect, integrity, and impact to power a brighter future for South Carolina and beyond,” said Dr. William H. Whitaker Jr., the college’s dean.
Bostic’s passion for science and sustainable energy solutions was strengthened through his participation in the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics’ Accelerate Virtual Engineering Program, where he explored multiple engineering disciplines and developed a focused interest in nuclear energy. The experience, coupled with mentorship from Dr. Musa Danjaji, chair of SC State’s Department of Engineering, helped Bostic embrace his calling to become a nuclear engineer.
He aspires to contribute to advancements in sustainable energy while serving as a mentor for future STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) scholars.
Throughout high school, Bostic was a member of the National Honor Society and the Boy Scouts of America’s Pack 190, Troop 190, where he developed strong leadership, teamwork, and service-oriented skills. His academic excellence has earned him numerous distinctions, including the Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College Honor Roll, College and Career Ready Seals of Distinction, the South Carolina Governor’s School Certificate of Achievement, and recognition as a College and Career Ready Completer.
He has been recognized with several scholarships:
- The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship
- The Rudolph Canzater Scholarship
- South Carolina State University National Alumni Association Greater Orangeburg Chapter Scholarship
- The Incoming Freshman Presidential Scholarship
Bostic is also an incoming member of the American Nuclear Society and proudly considers the Honors College his academic home. He describes the Honors College as “a place where scholars become not just successful professionals, but upstanding citizens who give back to their communities.”
He is inspired by the many leaders who have come through the Clyburn Honors College and hopes to one day stand among them as a role model and advocate for innovation in nuclear science.
