Are you considering an alternative option to brick and mortar schooling for your child? Is your child facing barriers to success with traditional schooling? You may want to explore virtual learning solutions, such as Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC), where your student can thrive in an environment tailored to their individual interests and needs.
Meet Emily Willis, CASC Class of 2023. After completing 4 dual enrollment classes during her time at CASC, Emily is college-bound and exploring a future in STEM. We had the opportunity to ask her more about her experience with virtual learning.
What made you want to switch from public school to online schooling?
Prior to my transition to virtual learning, I was at a traditional, brick and mortar school. I have ADHD, and this environment did not allow me to move around or do hands-on learning. This caused me to have poor grades.
When did you make the transition to CASC?
I started my learning journey at CASC in 10th grade, when I realized that I wanted a different learning environment.
How has attending CASC benefitted your learning?
I’ve been able to have a lot of 1 on 1 time with my teachers. They are so helpful in making my curriculum personalized and tailored to what works for my learning style.
CASC also allowed me to choose my learning focus, which is how I began my STEM pathway. I began with a curiosity about healthcare, and then switched to coding and cybersecurity in my final year.
What is the biggest difference between your experience with brick and mortar schooling and online learning?
The biggest difference in my experience with traditional vs. online learning is how they help you achieve milestones. The curriculum is structured so that I was able to complete courses faster, but the personalized nature of the environment allows them to really see where you’re most successful versus where you need support.
The milestones at CASC actually felt bigger. My teachers were pushing me to achieve larger goals than at a traditional school – but they structure the curriculum in a way that makes these milestones achievable.
Were you able to participate in extracurriculars while at CASC?
Yes! I was involved in community service, an opportunity that was not made readily available to me while at traditional public school. At CASC, I started in the Beta Club and eventually joined the National Honor Society. These clubs and organizations offered a lot of social outings, allowing me to get to know other students and be involved with the community.
Were you able to find a sense of community in an online schooling environment?
Definitely. It’s a different way of making friends, but I was able to build relationships with other students across the state through school outings, coordinating in-person meetups with classmates, and staying connected via email and phone!
What inspired you to explore a future career in STEM?
Thanks to CASC’s college career prep program, I was inspired to try STEM classes, and now I want to work in coding and cybersecurity. Not only do I know my career path, but I was honored as a STEM student in the state, and I have a mentorship with Boeing which is going to help me through college at USC Upstate.
What’s next for you?
I will be attending University of South Carolina Upstate and pursuing a degree in cybersecurity. I’m so grateful for CASC setting me up for success!
To learn more about Cyber Academy of South Carolina, please visit their website, Facebook, or Instagram!
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