Beyond the Court: How an Upward Project Scholar Balanced Basketball & Banking Success
Nathaniel Francois has always been known for his resilience and determination, both on and off the basketball court. As a walk-on at Northeastern University, he fought for his place on the team, proving that hard work and perseverance can lead to success.
These same qualities defined his journey through The Upward Project, where he overcame academic struggles, financial barriers, and self-doubt to carve out a promising future in finance. The Upward Project supported him along his journey, offering the support, mentorship, and resources that helped him navigate challenges and ultimately thrive in his college and career development journey.
Nathaniel’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, support, and belief in oneself.
Photo by Matthew Modoono/Image Courtesy of Northeastern University
My first semester of college was overwhelming. I felt out of place, questioning if I belonged, especially with the academic rigor that caught me off guard. Despite working hard, I wasn’t prepared for the transition, and by the end of the semester, I hadn’t met the GPA requirements to keep my scholarship.
That’s when The Upward Project became crucial. Their regular check-ins kept me on track and helped me address issues early on. Through their guidance, I began to develop a more structured approach to my studies. They taught me patience, and by my second semester, I had improved my grades and gained confidence, all while staying grounded through their support.
Just as I started gaining my footing academically, a new challenge emerged. The COVID-19 pandemic made finding internships tough, and I initially felt behind. However, rather than letting setbacks discourage me, I saw this as an opportunity to push myself further. It motivated me to aim higher, setting my sights on top firms like Goldman Sachs. I told Mindy, “I want to land one of those top positions.” My competitive drive kept me motivated, and I eventually secured a venture capital co-op, which paved the way for internships at J.P. Morgan.
While these accomplishments were exciting, imposter syndrome remained a persistent challenge. Whether in college or during internships, I often doubted my abilities. Growing up, I was taught to keep struggles to myself, making it difficult to express these feelings. However, The Upward Project’s consistent check-ins helped me confront these emotions. Their support reassured me that I wasn’t alone, encouraging me to open up and find confidence in my journey.
One major turning point came when I contemplated cutting off my dreads before my J.P. Morgan interview to look “more professional.” I feared my appearance might hold me back in the corporate world. But through discussions with The Upward Project, I realized that my worth wasn’t tied to how I looked. Their encouragement helped me embrace my identity, understanding that I didn’t need to change who I was to fit in—I just had to be myself.
Beyond emotional support, The Upward Project also provided critical financial assistance. They helped cover housing costs for my J.P. Morgan internships, easing financial stress and allowing me to focus solely on my work. This support was invaluable, especially compared to peers who struggled with housing expenses while trying to perform at a high level.
As I transitioned into my role at J.P. Morgan, I once again felt the familiar sensation of being behind. However, I had learned from past experiences that perseverance and initiative could make all the difference. I worked hard, asked questions, and demonstrated my dedication. My drive and work ethic stood out, ultimately securing me a full-time offer.
Reflecting on my journey, I see how The Upward Project helped me develop a deeper understanding of long-term success. I learned that simply getting into a good college wasn’t enough; I had to actively seek internships, network, and build experience. The program shifted my mindset from just getting by to consistently hustling for my future.
For current Upward Project students, my advice is simple: stay engaged and communicate. Even when life gets overwhelming, keep responding to messages and attending meetings. The persistence of the program, especially Mindy’s follow-ups, helped me stay on track. These small actions will pay off, even when things feel tough.
In Nate’s Words
“Beyond emotional support, The Upward Project also provided critical financial assistance. They helped cover housing costs for my J.P. Morgan internships, easing financial stress and allowing me to focus solely on my work. This support was invaluable, especially compared to peers who struggled with housing expenses while trying to perform at a high level.”
Mindy Wright, Founder & Executive Director, with Nate at one of his last basketball games at Northeastern as a senior.