Stepping into the shoes of a high school freshman is an exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience, filled with endless possibilities and new beginnings. For Brodey Brough, an eighth-grader at Momence Junior High, the upcoming transition to Momence High School is a blend of excitement and apprehension. With a name as cool as Brodey Brough—”What’s up, bro?”—he’s already a brand in the making.

Brodey moved to Momence from Kankakee in first or second grade, and since then, he’s found a home in this small, tight-knit community. Reflecting on his journey, Brodey shares, “We’ve moved a lot, but Momence has always felt like a good place. The people here are really nice, especially the teachers. It’s a nice little town.”

As an eighth-grader, Brodey’s days are filled with a mix of history, science, math, and English Language Arts (ELA). “We’re learning about the Holocaust in history and just visited the Holocaust Museum,” he says, his voice tinged with awe. “In science, we’re about to finish our last lesson, and I’m pumped about it.” His enthusiasm for science is palpable, and he reveals that he’s been thinking about a future in forensics—a perfect blend of his love for science and his interest in law enforcement.

Brodey’s inspiration for law enforcement comes from his great-grandfather, a military man whose passing had a profound impact on him. “He was in the army, and when he died, it was devastating for me,” Brodey recalls. “I wasn’t even really that close to him, but it was the first time I experienced death.” This experience ignited a passion in Brodey to pursue a career that honors his greatgrandfather’s legacy while using his scientific acumen.

Outside the classroom, Brodey is an active athlete, primarily playing baseball and planning to join the football team next year. “I’m in summer ball right now, usually playing left field or center field,” he shares. “I love the stimulation, the team spirit, and just being out there with my friends.” Despite his ADHD, Brodey finds joy and focus in sports, making meaningful connections with his teammates.

Brodey’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed. He recently received a Kiwanis award for leadership, an honor that recognizes his ability to inspire and lead his peers. “It was a dinner in Kankakee, and it felt really good to be acknowledged,” he says modestly.

Family plays a crucial role in Brodey’s life. With two brothers and three sisters, his home is filled with the hustle and bustle of a blended family. “I have a lot of cousins too, like 60 cousins,” he laughs. This extensive family network has taught Brodey the value of support and resilience, qualities that he carries with him in every aspect of his life.

Looking ahead to high school and beyond, Brodey has started to consider his future more seriously. “I’ve thought about maybe going into the military, getting a scholarship, and then becoming a teacher,” he muses. “We need more teachers, and it’s a really important job.” His ambition to combine military service with education speaks volumes about his commitment to making a difference.

When asked about what makes Momence special, Brodey’s answer is simple yet profound: “The people.” He appreciates the friendliness and support of the community, which stands in stark contrast to his experiences in Kankakee. “The teachers here are amazing. They’ve made such a big difference.”

Given the chance to offer advice to his younger self, Brodey reflects on the importance of thinking before speaking. “I used to say some violent things, and I’m not proud of that. I didn’t have a filter,” he admits. “I’d tell my younger self to be more mature and careful with words.”

If handed a magic wand, Brodey would use it to become a better person. “I think I’ve matured a lot, but I can always be better,” he says earnestly. His desire for self-improvement is a testament to his growth and his commitment to becoming the best version of himself.

As Brodey prepares to step into high school, he carries with him the lessons learned, the dreams nurtured, and the unwavering support of his community. His journey is a reminder of the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Brodey Brough is not just a rising freshman; he is a rising star in Momence, ready to make his mark and inspire those around him.