NATCHEZ — A Natchez Early College Academy sophomore has his sights set high, shooting for success while paving the way for others to follow.

Quadrick Bradford, a computer and photography enthusiast, said he loves to spend his spare time peering through a camera lens — especially outdoors surrounded by the world’s natural beauty, where he experiments taking pictures from different angles.“I started out taking pictures with my phone,” Bradford said. “I became more interested in taking pictures as I got better at it and their quality improved.”

Bradford said he approached the classroom in the same way, by trying out something new and realizing his passion for it.

“I just love working with computers,” Bradford said, adding that he was among the first to take an introduction to computer science and technology course when it became available at NECA.

By participating in the new classes at NECA, Bradford said he feels as though he is following in the footsteps of his older brother, Robert Bradford Jr., who was a member of NECA’s first graduating class in May 2017.

Quadrick Bradford said he scored a 31 on his ACT last December and knew that would open doors for him at colleges.

“I’m focused on getting the core and college courses I need to graduate with an associates degree,” Bradford said. “(Tuesday) I registered for two other college classes, just because of what I scored on the ACT. I’m following the path that was created by others in front of me, including my older brother.”

When he finishes college, Bradford said he hopes to start a business to help ex-convicts find jobs and gain a fresh start.

Bradford said his aspiration comes from family members, including his uncle, Adams County Sheriff Travis Patten, who comes in contact with people who’ve broken the law on a day-to-day basis.

“Everyone deserves a second chance,” Bradford said.

Bradford is the son of Sharon Bradford and Robert Bradford Sr.

Bradford said his brother, his family and himself are like trailblazers in the unexplored wilderness, showing others the way to a successful future that they might not have seen otherwise.

“I’m trailblazing a path — paving the road, in a way — for others behind me,” Bradford said. “Every year, when we do what we have to do and are supposed to do, NECA stays alive. For those behind us to have this opportunity, we have to succeed first and show them that this program can lead to a successful future.”