“Taking an online Chinese class showed me that I can be successful and learn new knowledge from anywhere in the world. Taking online classes at NCVPS also allowed me to continue my journey in Chinese.” – Hayden B.
“Hayden Belford is an exceptional student leader and an outstanding member of the NCVPS Peer Tutoring Center. She is incredibly responsible, driven, and dependable, consistently going above and beyond to support her peers and contribute to the success of the program. Hayden has excelled as a Virtual Buddy, using her positive attitude, encouragement, and leadership skills to inspire and motivate others. Her success in this role has naturally led her to step into the student leader position for the Virtual Buddy program, where she will now help guide and support other student buddies. Hayden truly embodies the qualities of a Super Star Student through her dedication, initiative, leadership, and commitment to helping others succeed.” – NCVPS Peer Tutoring Instructional Leader, Angela Knight
Hayden’s Story
I was shaped by my upbringing in Chinese immersion school. I grew up learning Chinese, and it became such a large part of my life that I couldn’t imagine not being in a Chinese class. During COVID, my dad had a heart attack and was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder, making it not possible for me to attend school in person. I started at an online school in 7th grade that didn’t offer Chinese courses. My mom told me that I could be signed up for a Chinese class at NCVPS and the rest is history.
Now, I have been learning Chinese for 13 years. I love crochet, hamsters, and have a wonderful little brother.
Online Experience
My desire to continue Chinese classes in middle school led me to take an NCVPS class. So far, I have taken Chinese 1-4.
I was pleasantly surprised that I recognized people in my classes, and that many other people in my school were also taking online classes.
Proactivity is the key to success: when you go ahead and do something, IT’S DONE!
Life Outside of School
I run a small crochet business. I am very involved in my local scout troop, 746. I am the president of Crew 746, and have just got my Life rank. I also enjoy playing video games with my brother.
My favorite Author is Edgar Allan Poe, because he helped spark my love of poetry and to feel free to express my weirdest self.
I am a second-degree black belt and a state champion in sparring. My favorite snacks are Chex Mix and mini powdered doughnuts. Also, I could not live without blankets! I love to nap and cuddle in a cozy blanket!
I have chronic migraines and have been working hard to get them under control. The doctors don’t seem to have any reason for why they are happening, but I have been trying.
Goals & Future Plans
My goal has been to get my Eagle Scout rank. To do this I got my Life rank, and have been preparing to make prey protection boxes for my Eagle project.
Long term, I plan to get my PhD in genetic engineering and to work in the Everglades of rebuilding the ecosystem down there.
