Oakland valedictorian accepted into 31 colleges chooses LSU to pursue dream of becoming a doctor

Dominic Antoine Jr., an 18‑year‑old senior at Fremont High School in East Oakland, achieved a rare academic sweep this year. He earned acceptance into all 31 colleges he applied to while maintaining a 4.3 GPA and graduating as valedictorian.

Antoine, known by friends and teachers as “Pooda,” announced on National College Decision Day that he will attend Louisiana State University to study biology on a pre‑med track.

Antoine said he plans to become an orthopedic surgeon, a goal shaped by years of sports‑related injuries and frequent visits to orthopedic specialists.

“A lot of back and forward to orthopedics, getting MRIs, getting X‑rays, getting checkups,” he told KTVU.

“I feel so relieved after being helped.”

A Perfect College Application Season

Antoine told KTVU that every school he applied to responded with the same answer — yes.

“No rejections!” he said proudly.

His acceptance list included top public universities such as UCLA and UC Berkeley. He also was accepted to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Howard University, Tennessee State University, and Morgan State University. He also received offers from private research institutions like Syracuse University.

Antoine broadened his reach by using the Common Black College Application, which allowed him to apply to dozens of HBCUs at once.

Why He Chose LSU

Antoine said LSU stood out early in the process. It was the first school to accept him and offered a top‑tier merit‑based scholarship, making the decision feel right. “I knew where my heart was, and I trusted my gut,” he said.

He added that academics, not athletics, guided his choice, even though some colleges expressed interest in him as a basketball recruit.

A Leader On and Off Campus

Educators at Fremont High describe Antoine as a standout student whose impact extends beyond academics. Principal Nidya Baez told KTVU he consistently advocates for students with disabilities and works to ensure they feel included.

“He fights for inclusion of students with disabilities in activities and goes out of his way to make them feel welcomed,” she said.

College and Career Readiness Specialist Jaliza Collins tol colleges recognized his character as much as his grades.

“He also leads with empathy and humility, which makes him that much more special,” she said.

Antoine excelled in multiple sports — basketball, football, and track — but remained committed to academics, taking AP courses and dual‑enrollment classes throughout high school.

Looking Ahead

Antoine hopes to become the first doctor in his family. He says he wants to inspire younger students in East Oakland to aim high. He is seeking community support to help cover college expenses as he prepares to begin his journey at LSU.

Antoine has created a GoFundMe for those interested in donating towards his exciting next journey in college.

The Oakland native, who is the second of six children, credited his family’s support and love.