Beyond The Nest is a feature that reaches out to WYWLA  graduates and interviews them to 

provide insights about their college or professional experiences.

This month we spotlight Camila Cardoso-Herrera!

What year did you graduate from WYWLA?

I graduated in 2021 from Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy. 

How long were you at WYWLA?

I attended the Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy from 6th grade until I graduated from high school. 

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?

I chose the Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy because one of the previous Magnet Coordinator, Mrs. April Love, came to my elementary school to market the Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy as an early college program that was prestigious and selective. When choosing WYWLA,  the early college access and academic excellence were things I hoped to get out of WYWLA.   I receive early college access through St. Augustine University and was able to graduate with 43 credits. WYWLA prepared me to handle a lot of coursework and to learn strategies to help me stay organized, which carried over when I went to Meredith College. My biggest influences at WYWLA were my peers; they constantly inspired me to strive to do my best. This was either seen in their work ethic and accomplishments through award ceremonies. 

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

Although I was not the brightest bee in the class, the biggest lesson I learned at WYWLA was to strive to do your best in everything you do. If you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. 

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

During my high school years, I was involved in Girls Lead International, where I was one of the presidents. As the president I organized  meetings and recruited students to join. The goal was to understand the social problems young girls face worldwide. In high school, the staff that helped me the most was Mr. di Carlo. He was always such a good teacher, even though he was strict. His strictness always pushed me to do my best.  Mrs. Watkins, Mrs. Greene Flowers, Ms. Young, Mrs. di Carlo, and Ms. Wormald all influenced me.   WYWLA teachers and staff have always been such good resources when I needed that extra help. 

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

I earned approximately 43 credits from the partnership with St. Augustine University. 

Why did you choose sociology as your major? What is your current job/career?

I chose Sociology as a major because of the current political climate during my college years. I am currently applying for my master’s in social work to become an LCSW. I am also currently working as a Recruiter for a staffing agency. 

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

My advice to 6th graders is to maintain a group of good friends they can count on. The people you see in your grade will stay with you throughout your high school graduation. 

As for the 9th-grade OWLs, I suggest figuring out what you want to do in your  life. If I could do 9th grade again, I would take time to make a vision board and then ask myself how to reach my goals. How can I afford a big house without a promising career? Work as hard as you can daily after figuring out what you want. Take things one step at a time, and understand that everything you do will have a consequence or a reward that you will see over time. 

For my senior OWLs, you can not change the past; you can only move forward. I would remind myself what I wanted to do: make a vision board before my first day in college. Again, remind yourself what you are there for, and grow connections with your professors and friends. Take advantage of your university’s resources and learn more about your identity as a young adult.

What do you do in your spare time?

I go to the gym during my spare time to clear my mind. 

What colleges did you apply to/get accepted? Why did you choose your university?

I applied to William Peace University, Meredith College, and  East Carolina University. I did get accepted to all three colleges. I chose Meredith College because I like small environments where I can create and grow. Meredith College gave me 1:1 time with professors and me when I needed extra help. 

How did high school prepare you for college? 

The dual enrollment program helped me prepare for individuality and independence once I attended college. I learned to handle multiple things simultaneously and attend to every single one of my responsibilities. 

What was your impression of life in college?  What was college life like?

As a first-generation immigrant, I did not have anyone in my personal life who told me about college. I learned a lot of my knowledge from American films, where the stereotypical mean girl clique exists and those who are nerds. My college life was different, where intelligence was valued and demonstrated through thesis projects and academic awards.