BEYOND WYWLA

What year did you graduate from WYWLA?

I graduated from WYWLA in 2021.

How long were you at WYWLA?

I attended WYWLA from the 6th to the 12th grade.

Why did you choose WYWLA? What were some things you had in mind to get out of WYWLA? Did you? Who were your biggest influences at WYWLA?

In a manner entirely devoid of clichés, I did not select WYWLA; rather, WYWLA embraced me. As a fifth-grader, my expectations were modest, and I could not fathom the profound growth and invaluable experiences that awaited me. Both academically and personally, my time at WYWLA transformed me. Every facet of the OWL experience at WYWLA - the dedicated staff, the nurturing environment, my exceptional peers, enduring friendships, the powerful sisterhood, and all other components - played an indelible role in shaping me.

What are some of the biggest lessons you learned at WYWLA?

At WYWLA, I discovered the power to unearth my true self, amplify my voice, and wholeheartedly embrace challenges. I discovered that I am capable of achieving far more than I initially believed and that I possess the potential to become a leader in shaping the future generation.

What were you involved in during your high school years? What staff members championed you while at WYWLA?  How?

Throughout my high school journey, I actively engaged in numerous pursuits. I was a varsity cross country and track athlete at Broughton High School, and also served as a dedicated cadet in the Civil Air Patrol throughout my high school years. In my freshman year, I assumed the role of President in the Juniorettes Club, and as a senior, I had the honor of presiding as President of the National Honor Society and serving as a Senior Class Representative in the Student Government Association. In every sphere of my WYWLA experience, the entire staff played a pivotal role in shaping my trajectory, infusing it with unwavering positivity, unceasing encouragement, intellectual challenge, and an enduring commitment to my success, sometimes even surpassing my own aspirations.

Approximately how many college credits did you earn through our partnership with St. Augustine’s University?

I earned about 41 college credits through the partnership with St. Augustine’s University.

What are you majoring in? What is your career goal? 

At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I am passionately pursuing a dual major in Economics and the Russian Language. My career aspiration is to effect meaningful positive change and leave an indelible mark in a domain intricately entwined with the realm of international relations.

What advice would you offer to our 6th grade OWLS, 9th grade OWLS, and our senior OWLS?

A. To 6th grade OWLS, embrace curiosity, explore your interests, and be fearless in your pursuit of knowledge. Your journey as a future woman leader starts with a strong foundation of learning and self-discovery.

To 9th grade OWLS, I would offer that transitioning into high school is not an easy feat, so nurture your resilience and seek out mentors who inspire you. Build a network of support, explore your passions, and remember that your voice is a powerful tool for change.

To the seniors, you’re on the brink of adulthood, taking on the world, and your potential as a woman leader is boundless. Trust in your abilities, continue to learn, and never underestimate the impact you can make. Your future is bright, so go out there and make your dreams the standard by which you live.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I travel, hike mountains, practice Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu, volunteer in my community, walk dogs, read, workout, and spend time with my family and friends.

What colleges did you apply to/get accepted? Why did you choose the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?

I applied to and got accepted into the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Texas A&M, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and the University of Hawaii at Manoa. I chose the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill because of its outstanding academic reputation, vibrant campus life, the unique opportunities they offered me through the Russian Flagship Program, and the ability to study abroad with any program on scholarship. 

How did high school prepare you for college? 

Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy equipped me for college by offering rigorous academics, immersing me in a collegiate atmosphere, and compelling me to break out of my comfort zone. This empowered me to discover my voice, igniting a determination to embrace the world and persist unwaveringly in the pursuit of my dreams.

By Li Benjamin