When Ella T. realized that her traditional public high school could not accommodate her ambitious academic goals, she made a pivotal decision that would transform her educational trajectory. Recognizing the need for greater flexibility to pursue concurrent enrollment opportunities, she transferred to Visions In Education during her junior year.
Upon joining, Ella found the individualized support she needed to excel. Working closely with University Prep Academy Principal Christina McKinnis and Counselor Julie Winalski, she developed a customized academic plan to pursue her collegiate ambitions while completing her high school requirements.
“During the spring of my junior year, I found Visions, and Mrs. McKinnis and Mrs. Winalski made me a personalized plan so I could achieve my goals and graduate with my AAs,” Ella said.
The flexible schedule provided by Visions gave Ella additional time to dedicate to her studies while maintaining her leadership role in 4-H, an organization focused on developing practical skills and leadership abilities in young people. This balance between academic rigor and extracurricular involvement became instrumental in her comprehensive development.
At just fourteen years old, Ella began taking college courses, igniting her passion for law and policy studies. Through dedication and the supportive environment at Visions, Ella yielded remarkable academic results. Rather than struggling to balance competing demands at her previous school, she thrived in her new educational setting.
“Without Visions, I would have struggled at my previous school to achieve my goals, but with my transfer, I was able to achieve not one AA degree, but two and a certificate,” said Ella.
As a member of Visions In Education’s Class of 2025, Ella graduated with an impressive array of credentials: her high school diploma, an Associate of Arts degree in Public Policy, Society, and Law, an Associate of Arts degree in Humanities, and a pre-law certificate from San Joaquin Delta College.
Ella’s academic journey continues at UC Davis, where she will study environmental policy analysis with a concentration in political science. Her long-term goals include attending law school to earn her Juris Doctor degree, after which she plans to advocate for environmental protection while supporting farmers’ rights through policy work. Ultimately, she aspires to serve in the United States Senate.
Reflecting on her experience, Ella encourages future Visions students to maximize the opportunities available to them.
“Take advantage of all the opportunities you can and never be afraid to reach out. Ask counselors what it looks like to take AP or college classes and take the extra step to stand out and make a difference,” advised Ella.
Ella’s achievements represent more than her success, they demonstrate the transformative power of accessible education and determination. As a first-generation college graduate, she views her accomplishments as proof that educational barriers can be overcome.
“As someone who has officially become a first-generation community college graduate…and heading to be a first-generation college student, [getting my AA] was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done,” Ella reflected. “Being given the opportunity that my parents never had and achieving it as young as I have, I feel I have proven that anyone can achieve a college degree regardless of their parents’ previous struggles. You may have to pave your own path, but it is extremely worth it in the end, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Through her academic achievements and passion for public service, Ella is an example that potential that can be unlocked when students receive the personalized support and flexibility they need to pursue their goals.
