For Anyanwu, the path forward has not always been clear.
As she entered high school, she was experiencing housing instability, and was unhoused during the beginning of her freshman year. Constant change and uncertainty made it difficult to stay motivated and envision what the future could look like.
When her mother suggested enrolling at Visions In Education, Anyanwu was hesitant. Like many students, she had struggled with virtual learning during the pandemic and was unsure if an online school would be the right fit. Eventually, she decided to give it a chance and enrolled in the University Prep Early College Academy.
Today, as a high school graduate, she is grateful she did.
“Visions helped support me by working with me to combat hurdles I encountered. I had plenty of support from my teachers and principals, which is something that helped me push through the difficulties.”
Although Visions operates virtually, the relationships Anyanwu built with teachers and staff became one of the most meaningful parts of her high school experience.
She developed strong connections with the educators who supported her throughout her journey, particularly when motivation was difficult to find.
“[My teacher] has been a huge support for me when it comes to school,” she explained. “She would work with me and help me find solutions to combat the lack of motivation.”
During her senior year, she also worked closely with her counselor as she began exploring her options after graduation.
“I really appreciate how helpful she’s been because trying to figure out what your next move is can be stressful. She helped me figure out what it is I want to do next.”
Those relationships gave her the encouragement she needed to step outside of her comfort zone.
Having struggled with social anxiety, Anyanwu initially found it difficult to attend school events and put herself out there. However, as she grew more comfortable with the staff and teachers she knew, she began participating in events during her junior year. Each experience helped build her confidence and encouraged her to get involved even more.
Soon, whenever a new opportunity was announced and she was available, she signed up.
Through field trips, activities, and events, she formed friendships, strengthened relationships with staff, and discovered experiences she may not have otherwise had.
“At most schools you get one or two field trips a year once you reach high school. Visions gave me the opportunity to get out more, try new things, see new places, and meet new people.”
Beyond events, Anyanwu also joined several student clubs that aligned with her interests, including Future Business Leaders, Wildlife and Conservation Club, and Community Service Club.
As someone who hopes to become a veterinarian, it is no surprise that biology quickly became Anyanwu’s favorite subject. She enjoyed learning about the natural world, but what stood out most was the support she received from her teachers.
“One thing that made the class better is the teachers,” she explained. “They were understanding when problems came up, and if you didn’t understand something specific, they worked with you to help you better understand the curriculum.”
Anyanwu also took advantage of dual enrollment opportunities, allowing her to experience college-level coursework while still in high school. The experience gave her valuable insight into what to expect in higher education and helped her feel more prepared for the future.
The personalized learning environment at Visions also gave her the freedom to pursue interests beyond academics. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with friends, roller skating, kickboxing, and creating art.
“I’m always exploring different mediums,” she said. “From drawing and painting to jewelry making and sewing, the list goes on. I like to challenge myself with my art and see what I’m good at, or find out what else I happen to like.”
After graduating from Visions this June, Anyanwu is excited for the next chapter of her journey.
She plans to complete her general education courses at American River College before transferring to the University of California, Davis, where she hopes to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She is especially interested in working with animals that are less commonly treated and hopes to combine her passion for animal care with opportunities to travel.
As she reflects on her high school experience, Anyanwu encourages current students to take advantage of every opportunity available to them.
“At Visions you will be given multiple opportunities, but it’s up to you if you choose to take them or not. One mistake I made was not participating in the things the school had to offer sooner.”
Looking back, the student who once struggled to see what came next has become a confident graduate with a clear sense of purpose, a strong support system, and an exciting future ahead.
