Ariel
Graduate
Ariel D. began attending Great Lakes Learning Academy during the pandemic. She considered other online schools, but says she selected this one “because of its flexible schedule.” Ariel had started a babysitting service and wanted to continue working. “When covid calmed down, I decided to stay because I could work and have freedom and flexibility in my day.”
What Surprised Ariel About Our School
“What surprised me most was that this school was easier than I expected. I thought I would learn better in person … and that the schedule would be like at an in-person school.
“It really doesn’t matter that the teacher isn’t in front of me teaching. I thought we wouldn’t do any science projects, but we did...we had on-camera LiveLesson® sessions and the teacher was there to help us figure things out.
“This school is more flexible, and the teachers are a lot more helpful, especially considering that it’s online and most students aren’t doing school just during the day. They focus on us individually. When I contact my teachers, I get an answer that’s for me, not for another student.”
Honored to Join the National Honor Society
When Ariel was a sophomore, she was delighted to be asked to join the school’s National Honor Society. “I wasn’t expecting to be asked to join an honor society that quickly,” she said. “They provided a lot of resources about continuing education and careers, and it was really great.”
When asked what she would tell other students considering online education, Ariel shared this advice, “Keep going and fighting for it. You’re going to be surprised by the fact that a lot of people are proud of you.
“Great Lakes Learning Academy provided me with resources I never knew existed. It offered me a better perspective and information on different careers. It gave me a better understanding of life than I would have gotten at a traditional high school.” Ariel is now attending Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles, where she’s studying child development.
“What I like most about this school is that it’s a big family. I say ‘family’ because you never thought you’d connect with people this good, especially at an online school.”
— Ariel