Student Spotlight: Stephanie

How Stephanie Found Her Calling in Education and Leadership Through Online Learning in Colorado

At Destinations Career Academy of Colorado, students discover not just their academic strengths but also their passions. Today, we spotlight tenth-grader Stephanie, whose journey exemplifies the spirit of exploration and commitment that our academy cherishes.

Stephanie’s academic journey began with a strong interest in health science. During her middle school years, she dove deep into this field. However, she soon realized that her true calling lay elsewhere. “The more I looked into health science, the more I realized it just didn’t feel right,” Stephanie recalls. “The more I looked into teaching and started teaching at Sunday school, the more I realized that it was what I was meant to do.” Her passion didn’t stop at teaching; it also sparked an interest in writing. Balancing her love for storytelling with her aspirations in education, Stephanie has found her true passions. 

Throughout her educational shifts, one constant has been the support of her teachers, particularly Mrs. Vasquez, who has been a guiding figure from eighth grade to the present. “Mrs. Vasquez has always been supportive, showing me various field trips and courses that could enhance my learning experience, no matter the pathway I was exploring,” says Stephanie. 

Stephanie’s leadership skills have flourished at Destinations Career Academy of Colorado. As Vice President of Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), she collaborated on a successful raffle fundraiser, demonstrating her growing leadership capabilities. One of her most notable accomplishments was the creation of a public service announcement about the dangers of fentanyl, which placed third at the state HOSA conference, qualifying her team for the international conference. 

Her involvement doesn’t stop at HOSA, however. Stephanie is also a proud member of the newly initiated Peer Leadership Program Destinations Career Academy of Colorado. “Joining the peer leadership team opened up many opportunities for personal and professional growth,” she explains. 

Stephanie’s typical day starts with breakfast and a favorite show at 7 AM, followed by classes and chores. The online format of Destinations Career Academy of Colorado allows her to maintain a perfect balance, accommodating her personal rhythm and learning style. 

“The virtual setting of our school is unique. It allows me to manage my time effectively, ensuring that even on days when external factors might disrupt a traditional school, my education continues uninterrupted,” she said. 

Looking forward, Stephanie is excited about her future in education. She aims to teach upper-level grades and is open to both virtual and traditional teaching environments. Meanwhile, she plans to leverage opportunities like internships and additional certifications offered through Destinations Career Academy of Colorado. Outside of academics, Stephanie is an active member of her church’s worship team and enjoys art, particularly painting and sketching. These activities complement her academic pursuits, providing a well-rounded lifestyle. 

Stephanie’s story at Destinations Career Academy of Colorado is one of growth, discovery, and leadership. Her journey highlights how our online school in Colorado supports students in finding their true callings while providing them with the tools to succeed both academically and personally. As Stephanie continues to explore and achieve her passions, she remains a beacon of the possibilities that await when students are given the freedom to explore their diverse interests.