BOYNTON BEACH – It’s well-documented that AJ Bates has found a way to end his high school experience on a high note.

From his humble beginnings at Somerset Academy Canyons, the outgoing senior dug deep and powered himself into a dream opportunity at FAU. He went into great detail on how he pulled it off.

Here is our exclusive Q & A session with FAU walk-on commit AJ Bates.

Editor’s note: This is Part 2 of our latest highlight feature with the Boynton Beach product.

Question #1: What led you to your decision to go with FAU?

AJ’s response: It’s a great atmosphere. The school fits me academically and athletically. FAU is known for having some top level running backs and great people. I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to play against other top level players to get better and push towards trying to be great.

Question #2: When did FAU contact you about a walk-on opportunity?

AJ’s response: Following my senior season, I found out that I was accepted to the school. So I asked about football, knowing I had to give it a shot. I was sent the schedule for walking on and knew I needed to take the opportunity to prove I belong there.

Question #3: Please tell me how you plan to take advantage of the walk-on opportunity and turn it into a scholarship at FAU.

AJ’s response: I plan to work hard and never take my foot off the gas. It’s one thing to be a great player in high school. But FAU is a whole different speed and level. I can’t get discouraged, nor will I accept quitting as an option. Every rep has to be like it’s my last, and if I mess up, I need to fix it. I’ve started from the bottom before and God willing, I can do it here and come out with a scholarship.

Question #4: Last time we spoke, you were considering Ave Maria. What made you move on from them and all the other offers you had?

AJ’s response: With the coronavirus going on, I was never really able to visit the school (Ave Maria). I didn’t want to commit to a school I have never been to. I have much respect for that program and wish blessings for them. But as for my other offers, some came down to the amount of scholarship money not being enough or the school not having really good recognition in my major, which I take very seriously.

Question #5: How do you feel about not being able to walk on stage for graduation due to the coronavirus pandemic? And what will you cherish the most about your high school journey?

AJ’s response: It was devastating, honestly. Twelve years of working to not be able to walk across the stage. This is surely a moment I would’ve told my kids about in the future. I am just proud that I made it this far, so I’ve accepted the fact. I will cherish the relationships I’ve made with coaches, teachers, and friends over the past years. High school has taught me a lot about hard work and how the real world goes.

NOTE: Beginning this fall, Bates will be majoring in Business Marketing at FAU.