Zinch March Madness

The Zinch Founders

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Where it all began...

Mick Hagen

Why Zinch is personal
There are millions of high school students around the world who go undiscovered because they didn't get above an "x" score on a standardized test (PLAN, ACT, PSAT, SAT). Many of these same students have exceptional qualities, unique skills and diverse accomplishments. These students go unnoticed and unrecognized during the initial college recruitment process.

I know exactly how it feels. I was one of those students. It's depressing. It's frustrating. It's unjust. Fortunately, I was still able to figure out a way to get myself out on the radar (read my story). Other students however, aren't as fortunate.

That's why I left Princeton for Zinch. I wanted to help high school students be seen for what they are -- not just numbers, but people. People who have dedicated countless hours to hone and develop their talents and skills; people who've done extraordinary things in and outside the classroom; people who will bring a great deal of value to any college campus they set foot on.

Unlike the approach I took in showcasing myself, the Zinch approach is scalable, robust and anyone can do it (no need for photoshop or graphic design skills). I am more than a test score. So are you. Finally there's a way you can show it.

About Mick
Mick is an undergrad at Princeton University (currently on a leave-of-absence for Zinch) studying economics and computer science. In high school Mick won the Utah State Sterling Scholar Award in Computer Science (awarded to only one individual in the state) and also the Overall Award. Mick also captained the varsity basketball and chess teams (in which he was all-state in both); served as editor-in-chief of his school newspaper; President/Founder of the Computer Club.

Sid Krommenhoek

Why Zinch is personal
My mother has a conviction for/to education. While raising alone five children, she returned to BYU to complete her bachelor’s degree. During this time, she had very little financial and emotional support apart from her own limited resources; but, she had faith. Despite very real challenges, I grew up feeling opportunity and success were hindered only by my unwillingness to work and persevere. Her sweat and tears on my behalf fostered confidence and commitment. I ended high school at the top of my class with state recognition for success in both athletics and academics. I applied to 3 schools: the University of Utah, U.S. Air Force Academy, and Duke University; I was accepted to all three. Zinch adds momentum to the noble efforts of parents and mentors behind our youth.

About Sid
Sid has a beautiful wife, a daughter and son; they each inspire him every day. He graduated from Brigham Young University with a Business Management degree. During and since that time, he’s been active in non-profit as well as for-profit endeavors.

Brad Hagen

Why Zinch is personal
I’ve always felt education is important, but over time I’ve felt the population that most needs education is not always getting it. The culture in many of these families is not centered on getting a college education.

Growing up as a Hispanic and living in cities like Washington D.C and Detroit, MI, my passion grew for wanting to see more from the minority population. To let them see more of what they could do and how they could do it. Empowerment and education is where my passion is. This is why I am Zinch.

I was lucky to have parents that pushed education. They gave me the vision of higher education, though neither of them had graduated from college. My mom led by example as she went on the finish her degree while I was finishing up high school. Even without resources, I at least had parents that wanted me to go to college and get an education. I applied to only three schools. Stanford, Duke and BYU. Stanford, the first letter I got back, was a rejection. It killed me. I lost hope, I wish I had applied to more schools, I wish more schools knew about me. I wished there was something I could do, but it was too late. Then came the acceptance from Duke. It made it all good and then an acceptance to BYU came as well. I was able to get into a good school, and even better a school wanted me. I was lucky to have the support I had, but it was still a tough process. I believe the case still remains the same for many others. College is a life changing experience, we just need more kids to see the opportunities that await them, and allow more kids to take advantage of them.

About Brad
Brad is currently an undergrad at Brigham Young University pursuing a bachelors in Communications with an emphasis in advertising and marketing. He sits on the board of a Brighter Life Foundation, Inc. (a non-profit helping minorities prepare for college). He has served in various leadership positions including President of HKK Marketing and executive director for BYU’s student government.