Three years ago, Abigail J. began her high school journey at Visions’ Independent Study Academy, looking for an alternative to traditional public school. After hearing positive experiences from friends already enrolled, she was drawn to a learning environment that would give her the support to pursue her goals on her own terms.
She was looking for an education option where she could personalize her learning, and be supported to find success on her own individual path. At Visions, she found just that.
“I really appreciated the flexibility and supportive environment at Visions,” she explained. “It allowed me to focus on both my goal of graduating a year early and my personal life while balancing a job.”
A few years later, she achieved her original goal and so much more.
Upon enrolling at Visions, Abigail worked closely with her credentialed teachers and counselor to create a learning schedule that truly worked for her, and aligned with her current and long-term goals.
“I loved talking with my two teachers and asking them questions and advice, and whenever I was confused about college, I knew I could always go to my counselors, and they would point me in the direction I needed to go.”
Something she personally struggled with early in her journey at Visions was, “coming to terms with the fact that I can’t do everything all at once. That I make mistakes and I’m going to mess up at some points.”
Through her own determination, participation in Visions’ advocacy class, and support from her teachers and counselors, Abigail developed the confidence and skills to take ownership of her education.
“Visions helped me to take my time and not to rush through things. I was able to make my own schedule and not stress about planning every day.”
That confidence inspired her to explore courses that would ultimately support her in shaping her future goals, and working toward them before even graduating high school. She enrolled in Visions’ Medical Careers Career Technical Education (CTE) pathway, where she deepened her understanding of the human body and how it works. “It was one of the most interactive classes I’ve ever had,” she shared.
Another highlight of her time at Visions was her Integrated Math coursework. “I know a lot of people don’t like math, but it’s one of my favorite subjects,” she explained. She completed both the A and B sections of this course in a single semester, and looks forward to building on those skills as she pursues a degree in mechanical engineering.
While supporting students to meet essential learning standards is our top priority, at Visions our staff works diligently to support the whole student, helping them grow in their passions and interests beyond the virtual classroom.
Through Visions’ Directed Project program, Independent Study students can pursue rigorous, relevant, and personalized learning experiences that enrich their education through the study of a subject they are passionate about. For Abigail, she chose to further her passions for music, specifically violin and guitar, as well as crocheting.
“Through the crocheting class, I was able to make a couple of blankets and throws for my friends, which made the experience even more meaningful because I could create gifts for people I care about.”
Beyond music and crocheting, Abigail enjoys spending time with friends and hitting the slopes whenever she has the chance to go snowboarding.
After crossing the graduation stage a year early, Abigail is already preparing for her next adventure.
She looks forward to studying mechanical engineering and culinary arts at Diablo Valley College before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley, where she hopes to continue her education and work toward a career that will help her kickstart the rest of her life.
As she reflects on her time in the Independent Study Academy, Abigail is grateful for the support and independence that help her reach her goals.
For those who are considering enrolling at Visions, she offers this advice:
“The teachers and counselors are so helpful, but you have to manage your time and stay motivated. My advice would be not to procrastinate, ask for help when you need it, and stay organized so you can succeed in whatever you choose to do.”
