How GWUOHS Supported Lauren’s Academic Journey and Strengthened Her Sense of Belonging 

For Lauren, George Washington University Online High School (GWUOHS) has been more than a place to study. It has been a school community where she has found academic support, personal growth, and a strong sense of connection. 

Lauren, who has been a GWUOHS student since eighth grade, hopes to major in biology, attend medical school, and eventually become a pediatric rheumatologist. She explains that her long-term goal is deeply personal, as she hopes to support children with autoimmune diseases and contribute research in that field. 

Finding Community 

When Lauren reflects on what she enjoys most about being a student at GWUOHS, she points first to the people. She describes the school has a sense of camaraderie that feels unique and has created a kind of community she has not experienced elsewhere. 

That feeling of connection comes through again when she describes what she wants others to know about her experience. For Lauren, the combination of supportive peers and teachers has created an environment where she feels genuinely encouraged and supported. 

Academic Growth 

Qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program came as a surprise to Lauren, and she had not expected that outcome when she first took the PSAT. Her mother adds that Lauren did not study for the exam and that the family saw the recognition as an affirmation of her academic talent. 

She has found studying with friends helpful, and practice problems especially useful compared with simply rereading material. She also says her college counselor helped her find study resources, including Khan Academy, which supported her preparation. 

Her interest in science has also become clearer over time. She describes biology and AP Biology as two of her favorite classes and says they helped solidify her decision to major in biology in college. She also points to Mr. Kulp, her biology teacher and one of the co-leaders of the GW medical team club, as an important part of that journey.

Growth Beyond Class 

Lauren shares that her peers and teachers have pushed her to become a better student and person, and she describes her class sessions as engaging and supportive. She adds that serving as a grade representative in eighth grade helped her build interpersonal skills and become more involved in the school community and her opportunity to write for the student newspaper, The Chronicle of the Yawp, also helped foster that growth.

That growth is visible in other areas as well. One of the academic experiences Lauren is most proud of is being accepted to Emory University Pre-College and spending two weeks on Emory’s campus. 

Her mother says Lauren has also grown significantly in time management and self-advocacy during her years at GWUOHS. She describes Lauren as someone who has balanced academics with medical appointments, physical therapy, theater rehearsals, and volunteering commitments while continuing to stay on top of deadlines and even studying backstage during productions. 

Even with so much on her plate, Lauren continues to find ways to help others. Her volunteer efforts have included raising more than $2,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, securing donations of asthma nebulizers from a local medical supply company and distributing them to several public schools and health care centers in the Philippines, and preparing to volunteer four hours each week in a local hospital’s Rehabilitation Medicine Department starting next month.

Flexibility and Resilience 

Lauren’s mother says the flexibility at GWUOHS has played an important role in Lauren’s high school experience, especially as she has navigated health circumstances along the way. At the same time, Lauren has continued to pursue her academic goals and stay involved in the broader experiences that have shaped her growth. 

In her mother’s view, that flexibility has made it possible for Lauren to continue learning while staying engaged in the many other parts of her life. She also says the school’s faculty and staff have been supportive of their family’s needs, and that assigned counselors have helped make the experience feel more personal and manageable over time. 

Looking Ahead 

Looking ahead, Lauren is building toward a future in medicine, with goals that reflect both her academic interests and her desire to help others. Her high school experience has helped strengthen that direction while giving her opportunities to grow with purpose and confidence. 

When asked what advice she would give students pursuing ambitious academic goals, Lauren’s message is simple: don’t give up. Lean on the people around you who believe in you and want to help you succeed. 

Lauren’s story reflects the kind of growth that can happen when academic ambition is paired with the right support. At GWUOHS, she has found a school environment that has helped her pursue her goals, strengthen her confidence, and build a lasting sense of community. 

Learn More About GWUOHS 

Families interested in learning more about GWUOHS and the admissions process can find additional information and next steps on the admissions page.