“Everything about online classes has been a surprise. I never dreamed that I would prefer it to actual in-person classes; the freedom to set my goals to my standards, the ability to see my growth online, and the opportunities for outreach programs where I can go out into the community and serve as needed. I enjoy opportunities to mentor other students in a private setting, where they are comfortable with me. I never dreamed that I would become my school’s ambassador and have the opportunity to sit at the School Board Forum where my voice was heard. Hopefully, I helped them realize that students like me, with my preferred learning style, can be just as successful as brick-and-mortar students.” – Zaye M.
“Zaye is one of the most thoughtful students I have ever taught. It is so funny to me that Zaye and I have never met in person, but through our conversations in Canvas and over the phone I can tell how much he cares for others. Not only does he have an amazing heart, he cares about his learning and making sure he always understands every piece of information that is thrown his way. He wants to excel in every aspect of his life. He is such a joy to teach and I am so thankful that I have been lucky to teach him.” – Ms. Jessica Polk, NCVPS Math Instructor
Zaye’s Story
I am a student who shows up every day to school ready to learn. I am aware that as a student it is my responsibility to hold myself accountable and make sure that I am following the guidelines and policies set by the school. I strive to be respectful of my peers and meet the expectations set for me by my teachers, administrators, and advisors. I have always put my education at the forefront of my goals. Without the foundation of education, I would not be able to achieve my life goals. I am a person who cares deeply about my family, friends, and community. I believe that you get what you put into yourself and I am grateful for the opportunities that have been given to me by my mom, family, educators, and my community. I grew up with a single parent for the first 8 years of my life. Watching my mother’s hard work and dedication to our family and her career has shaped me into the young man I am today. I know that I can achieve anything that I set my mind to with the right amount of hard work, support, and prayer.
Online Experience
Sample of Zaye’s Work
I have only taken the Math 1 course. Mrs. Polk, as my advisor, is always positive and encouraging.
I have been taking classes online since the Spring of my 4th-grade year, due to COVID. I prefer it to a brick-and-mortar classroom. I am an introvert, and working online has allowed me to excel in all of my classes. I have always been a good student, making good grades, but working in a controlled environment has been essential to my success as a student. Not only has it helped me with my level of concentration, but it has also helped me with my communication skills and has allowed me to have a voice that I feel I may otherwise not have.
For you to be successful in this program, you will have to continue being academically responsible. Take the time to review your school assessment calendar, make sure that you complete all of your assignments on time, and be respectful of your teachers and fellow students. To understand school policies, engage in school activities, and allow yourself the opportunity to serve in your community. You will have to learn time management, working independently, knowing your worth, setting your goals, and holding yourself accountable.
Life Outside of School
In my free time, I like to play airsoft, which is a game very similar to paintball with my stepdad. I like going to the mountains and hiking off-trail to see waterfalls, and I also enjoy whitewater rafting, which we do every summer. I like to draw the characters from the games I play in my sketchbook and watch different anime with my mom. I also enjoy working out at least 5 days a week.
My favorite show is MacGyver. I enjoy this show because the main character uses math, science, and statistics to solve problems and escape impossible situations.
I am extremely flexible. This was not something that I spent a lot of time perfecting, one day I started doing crazy stretches, and now I can place my legs behind my head with ease.
Currently, my favorite snack is a beef chalupa from Taco Bell.
I think we can all be honest at this point and say that it would be very difficult to live without our phones.
Goals & Future Plans
My short-term goal is to get into Early College. I hope that I can achieve this goal by the end of the year! I walked the campus earlier this year and I enjoy how each student is seen as an individual there and the flexibility of creating your schedule. I also would love the opportunity to start college classes and graduate with my Associate’s degree and High school diploma.
My goal this semester was to make 100 in every class. During class, I pay close attention to my teachers and the lessons. I take as many notes as I can to review later, which I do before any test. I take my time completing my assignments and tests and check back over my answers before submitting them. I also check my grades every week to ensure that I am not missing anything before the end of each week.
My future goal is to be a Trauma Surgeon. I have always been intrigued when watching shows with surgeons cutting into a person and fixing everything wrong from the inside out. Since I was young I have always wanted to help people, and this is the way I want to help in the future. It will take me about 15 years of schooling to become the surgeon I want to be. This will include 4 years of undergrad, 4 years for my MD, 5 years for my general surgery residency, and 1 to 2 years for my trauma surgery fellowship. It will not be easy however, I am extremely motivated to accomplish this dream.
For my High School graduation gift, I will be going to Japan. This has been a trip I have always wanted to take. I love the culture, the food, the music, the art, and the shows. I can’t wait to see the structures in person and look forward to walking the busy streets. The culture there is focused on claiming the body and mind, being kind to everyone, and keeping alive traditions dating back thousands of years. All of these things and more make Japanese culture a favorite of mine.
Final Note
I am a member of the Nation Junior Honor Society, the Cosby Club, and the Cosby Scholars. I won the Winston-Salem Human Relations Student Award last year. I have made straight 100s for the past 3 years. I was the Vice President of the student body during my 7th-grade year as well as class representative for my Accelerated Math class, I currently sit on the PTO board as the student advisor. I take pride in knowing that my teachers and peers think highly of me, so much so that they nominated me for this award. My family and I try to serve our community at least once a month whether that be handing out coats or working at the local Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
