UCEC is excited to congratulate junior, Arya Patel, on her acceptance to North Carolina Governor’s School. Arya will be among many from around the state to attend this summer. She thought the idea of the school was cool, so she researched the benefits, figured it would look good on college applications, and thought it would be a good way to experience “dorm life” before going to college full-time when she graduates high school. The process for Arya began in the fall, making it to state-level consideration in December. Her anticipation had been high the week prior to receiving her acceptance on Mar. 17, and she has not stopped smiling since. 

For those of you who don’t know, NC Governor’s School is a residential program that integrates academics, arts, and other courses into a 4-week learning program housed at Meredith College and Winston-Salem University. This competitive program is administered by the State Board of Education and the Department of Public Instruction. The goal of the program is to encourage students to explore, ask questions, and discover new possibilities that complement their high school instruction and their chosen field of study. For Arya that means science and radiology, leading to her goal of being a doctor.  

Arya’s advice to her peers and underclassmen, “Take every opportunity that is given to you. Even if you feel like you’re not good enough for a prestigious college, internship, job, etc. Just apply. You are given the same chance and opportunity to be your best self as any other person. I wasn’t guaranteed a spot at Governor’s school, but I worked hard to submit an application that represented my personality and passions to the best of my ability.” We are so proud of your dedication, Arya!