As Gizelle C. begins her junior year, she is already looking ahead to a major milestone: graduating high school a year early and taking the next step toward her dream of becoming a nurse.
Three years ago, Gizelle enrolled in Visions’ Independent Study Academy in search of an education program that would truly support her goals and allow her to pursue her passions outside of the classroom.
At Visions, she found the personalized learning environment and flexibility she needed to make her academic goals and busy lifestyle work together.
Beyond academics, Gizelle is a dedicated and passionate athlete. She trains in Jiu Jitsu four days a week for two to three hours each day, along with three hours of dance practice once a week.
When she is not at practice, Gizelle enjoys lifting weights at the gym. One of her favorite ways to stay active is by competing in mud runs and Spartan races.
“Fitness is a huge part of my life,” she explained.
In her previous school environment, Gizelle found it difficult to balance her academics with the level of athletic involvement she wanted. At Visions, she has been able to create a schedule that better aligns with both her academic goals and the activities she loves.
She has also found opportunities to get involved in the Visions community through student clubs and events, including Christian Club. “I really love the dances and the pumpkin patch!”
Outside of school and athletics, Gizelle enjoys painting her nails as a creative outlet.
“Visions gave me the opportunity to go at my own pace so that I can finish my work and have more free time to do the things I enjoy while still getting a proper education.”
Throughout her time as a Visionary, Gizelle says her favorite part of the Visions experience has been the support and flexibility she has received, along with the “resources to set you up for success.”
Those resources have included opportunities such as dual enrollment, which has helped Gizelle begin preparing for her goal of pursuing higher education and becoming a nurse.
A significant part of her success has also come from the support of her credentialed teacher, Ms. Jillian Torres, and her counselor, Ms. Ah Yang.
“My teacher has been such a great help this school year and has allowed me to really reach my full potential. Along with my counselor, who has guided me through my academic plan and shown me that anything is possible if you work for it.”
Gizelle has been thinking about her future since she first enrolled at Visions three years ago, and now that future is quickly approaching.
This school year, she will graduate high school a year early before continuing on to community college to complete her prerequisites for nursing school.
Her journey is a reflection of what can happen when students have the flexibility and support to build an education around their individual goals, interests and aspirations.
When asked what advice she would share with prospective students and families considering Visions, Gizelle’s message was clear:
“I would say to just do it. I was scared to make the switch at first, but it ended up being the best choice possible for me.”
