Meet Mira Costa's $90,000 Kid
May 11, 2023 09:53PM ● By Jeanne Fratello
Dylan Iskandar has won both a $50,000 scholarship from Edison and a $40,000 scholarship from Amazon.
MB News: Both of the big scholarships that you have won - Edison and Amazon - are incredibly competitive scholarships. How does it feel to be recognized with these big prizes?
Iskandar: It’s very rewarding. For most of my life, I’ve been working "behind the scenes" on my projects, so to be recognized with such prestigious awards is truly humbling. Winning the Edison and Amazon scholarships has given me a great sense of validation for all the effort that I’ve put into my academic pursuits. It’s like practicing piano for hours every day, honing your skills and mastering your craft, and finally getting the chance to perform on a big stage and feeling the adrenaline of the audience. These opportunities have opened up many doors for me and I'm excited to see where my journey takes me next.
MB News: What role did your family or teachers play in helping you succeed?
Iskandar: I owe all of my success to my family, teachers, and friends who have played a vital role in shaping my academic and personal journey. My family has been a constant source of guidance and encouragement, always providing me with the resources I need to succeed. My teachers have inspired me with their enthusiasm and expertise, and have challenged me to think critically and creatively. My friends have motivated me to strive for excellence and have given me the confidence to bounce back, even when I’ve faced setbacks. I appreciate their constant support in my life, and with these scholarships, I aspire to make a positive impact in the lives of others, just as they have done for me.
MB News: What will you look back on as some of the highlights during your time at MCHS?
Iskandar: During my time at MCHS, spending time with friends has been some of the most memorable highlights of my high school experience. Whether it was traveling to badminton tournaments with my team, working on projects together in the computer science club, or simply spending time together during lunch breaks, I’m grateful for all of the memories I have with my friends.
MB News: What do you plan to do over the summer?
Iskandar: I’m going to be interning at a Wall Street Quant Firm in New York City and attending several AI conferences in the Bay Area. I’ll also be taking care of my grandparents and spending time with my friends and family before I’m off to college.