By: Alaysia Curry and Daylun Armstrong
September 28, 2021
Last Friday, former Cleveland Browns running back Jamaine Cook talked to the Brooklyn High School senior class to discuss life after high school while also talking about his life’s journey, his football career, and the obstacles that he had to overcome.
Cook discussed the methods that he used to navigate through life which he refers to as the Five P’s: Passion, Preparation, People, Problems, and Perseverance.
When asked what his biggest struggle professionally or personally was and how he overcame it, his response was eye-opening: “I think my biggest struggle has been trying to change the narrative for myself and my family. Just not being too hard on myself and trusting and enjoying the journey. The way I overcame [my struggles] was by finding things that gave me balance: Family, friends, and sports. Balance is key!”
By overcoming the challenges that life threw at him such as being in foster care, his mother’s struggle with addiction, and the overall stress of life in general, all of this pushed him to become a better version of himself and to accomplish his goals in life.
One of his passions was football, and by putting in dedicated and hard work, he received a scholarship to Youngstown State University. After college, he was signed by the Cleveland Browns.
“It was a dream come true, and it felt like all of my hard work had paid off. It was also proof that if you work hard, dreams really do come true,” stated Cook. “Graduating from college, making it to the NFL, traveling the world, and being an inspiration and motivation to others is truly a blessing. By playing for my hometown, it provided a platform to be able to help others like students here at BHS.”
While all of the above is great, there was and still is one aspect of his life that inspires and motivates him even more. His daughter Amelia changed his life and continues to push him to be at his best. She is his pride and joy.
After leaving the NFL, he wanted to showcase his other talent by starting a career and by not allowing football to completely define him. He is currently completing his second year in his MBA program at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and his desire is to, one day, lead and run his own company.
His visit to BHS was truly impactful to so many students, and he left us with amazing advice.
“Don’t be afraid to be different, don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, and find something you’re passionate about. Allow that to be the light that takes you to the promised land,” stated Cook.
Mr. Cook, thank you for coming in to talk to us, to teach us, and to inspire us. We are all forever grateful!
Cook’s motto: Thrive > Survive
THE RETURN OF THE EYE 