At what grade level did you start at The First Academy?

I started attending The First Academy in sixth grade.

What were the reasons you or your parents chose The First Academy?

My parents and I chose The First Academy because my mom got a job as the preschool teacher, and my parents wanted me to have a Christian based education after going to a public elementary school.

Are you involved in extracurricular activities? If so, what are they and have you received awards in these activities? (These can be affiliated with TFA or outside of school)

I have participated in both Varsity Tennis (four years) and Varsity Swimming (six years) at TFA. I received the Coach’s Award twice and the Positive Spirit Award once for swimming as well as the Leadership Award twice for tennis. I have also spent most of my time in high school participating in Student Government and the Royal House system in a variety of roles.

Which colleges have you applied to and which ones have you been accepted to thus far? (Please include if you have made a decision to attend a certain college next year)

I have applied to Liberty University, University of South Florida, Auburn University, and the University of Florida, and I plan to apply to Duke University as well. I have received acceptance to Liberty University so far.

What do you plan to study in college and what are your long-term career goals?

I plan to take a pre-medicine route in college. I hope to become a surgeon in the Navy after medical school and surgical residency. If I don’t end up in the Navy, I hope to be a surgeon working in an Emergency Room or hospital.

Have you received any college scholarships? If so, which ones? (Or, which ones are your currently nominated for)

As of right now, I have not applied for nor received any college scholarships.

Who is/are your favorite TFA teacher(s), and why? (Teachers can be K4-12)

One of my favorite teachers at The First Academy is Coach Oliver. Coach Oliver not only taught me a tremendous amount about anatomy, a subject that highly interested me, but he took intentional time out of class and his busy schedule to pour into me spiritually. Coach Oliver would share with us parts of his testimony during class, and his willingness to be vulnerable in front of us is something that has deeply affected me. Coach Oliver was not only one of best teachers but also focused on sharing his heart and his love for Jesus with his classes. I am extremely grateful for the wisdom Coach Oliver has instilled in me throughout the years I have been at TFA.

How has TFA made a difference in, or impacted your life?

The First Academy has made a difference in my life in tremendous ways by teaching me how to be intentional with my faith. Had I not started TFA in sixth grade I don’t know how long it would’ve taken me to learn how to have a true walk with Jesus and be intentional with my actions. TFA has not only impacted my life in a positive way academically but has further developed my walk with Jesus that I am forever grateful for.

How do you feel that The First Academy has prepared you for life after graduation?

I feel that The First Academy has prepared me for life after graduation by providing a safe environment where I could set a firm foundation for my faith. Allowing me the ability to set that foundation in my faith now will allow me to defend that faith in college and in the workplace later without leading me to doubt what I believe. That foundation will give me the ability to not feel insecure about my beliefs, but to live freely in Jesus as the Bible tells us we are, and also be able to make an impact for the Kingdom in whatever setting I end up in.

What does it mean to you to be TFA alumna?

To be able to call myself a TFA alumna in a few short months will be an honor. Getting to claim that I graduated from an institution that puts Jesus before everything while also having rigorous academics at the same time is a blessing. TFA has shaped who I am as a student and a Christ follower and to tell people I graduated from there will be a huge honor.