Image of Natalie

Natalie Kristiansen

Graduate

Natalie Kristiansen is a recent graduate from South Carolina Connections Academy (SCCA). She lives with her family in Liberty, South Carolina. With a more flexible school schedule, Natalie thrived at SCCA, because she was able to balance her studies, personal interests, and maintaining her health. Natalie’s mom shares more of her story below.

"After being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at the age of eight, then undergoing two and a half years of chemotherapy, Natalie is now cancer free. Natalie was facing numerous health issues and being bullied at the local bricks-and-mortar school when her doctor recommended SCCA. After researching the program, we decided that it was an excellent option for Natalie. Her favorite subject is South Carolina History because many of the battles were fought in the area where she lives, and many of the people that are studied were from this area."

Natalie says, "I love SCCA because I really liked doing school from home. In my old school, there were always distractions. It helped to be able to review the lessons more than once and to be able to learn at my own pace. I really enjoyed the LiveLesson® sessions and being able to get to know some of the other students. One of the best things was being able to contact and get help from the teachers anytime I need it. They were always available and willing to help."

I really enjoyed the LiveLesson sessions and being able to get to know some of the other students. One of the best things was being able to contact and get help from the teachers anytime I needed it.

— Natalie

Outside of school, Natalie’s interests include singing and playing the guitar. The flexible schedule at SCCA allowed for practice time during breaks or after finishing assignments. She was recently accepted into the Connections Academy Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network, and she is an active member at her church. Natalie also enjoys hanging out and shopping with friends. She keeps in touch with friends by talking on the phone, texting, and visiting.

Talal sitting at his workspace for online school