For Independent Study Academy senior Yumiko R., Visions has been home since kindergarten.
As a young learner, Yumiko and her family enrolled at Visions seeking additional support for a learning disability. What they found was something even greater: personalized, one-on-one guidance, encouragement, and an environment where Yumiko could grow with confidence.
“My favorite thing about being a student at Visions is that I get a lot of one-on-one support I normally wouldn’t get at a traditional school.”
Now reflecting on her time as a student at Visions, Yumiko has not only succeeded academically but has also taken advantage of opportunities to get involved and grow every step of the way.
“Yumiko is someone who works hard and tries so many things for her own personal growth,” shared Yumiko’s credentialed teacher, Christina Fischer.
At Visions, students are encouraged to explore their interests through clubs, activities, and school events, and Yumiko has fully embraced those opportunities. She is a founding member of the Community Service Club, helping create opportunities for students to give back.
When asked what inspired her to start this club, she shared, “Community service humbles me. It shows me how much I have and to be grateful for what I own. Giving back to others makes me feel happy and grateful.”
In addition to serving her community, Yumiko is an active member of the Visions Volleyball Club. Having enjoyed the sport since she was young, she joined to stay active and connect with fellow students. She has also branched out and connected with other Visions students by attending multiple Visions events.
Yumiko brings her spirit for growth into the virtual classroom as well. While enrolled at Visions, she challenged herself by taking a college course, gaining firsthand experience with the pace and expectations of higher education. This early exposure has prepared her for life after graduation and strengthened her academic confidence.
Visions also offers several Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways for students to further explore college and career opportunities. One of Yumiko’s hobbies outside of school is playing video games. She has blended this interest of hers with her academic drive through Visions’ Game Design pathway, allowing her to dive into the world of video game design and learn more about animation.
“She really uses the resources here [at Visions] to invest in her education,” expressed Ms. Fischer.
Looking to the future, Yumiko aspires to become a graphic designer and animator for Nintendo, and live in Japan with her family. With the foundation she has built at Visions, matched with her drive for growth, she is sure to go far.
When asked what advice she would share with other Visions students, she explained, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
