SHELTON PRIDE: AVERY VIRACOLA
Grade: Twelfth grade.
Learning differences: ADHD, Dyslexia, and Auditory Processing,
When did you start at Shelton? "I moved to Shelton at the beginning of seventh grade from Hockaday."
What clubs/sports are you in? "During my time at Shelton, I have played Middle School soccer, MS cheer and Varsity cheer. I am involved in National Honors Society (NHS), student council, bowling club, photography club and performing arts club."
What has been your favorite experience at Shelton? "My favorite experience at Shelton has been my time on the Varsity Cheer team. Not only have I met some of my best friends, but I have been able to positively represent my school on and off campus."
Who has been your favorite teacher? "There have been several influential teachers that I have had throughout high school, but so far, my favorite has been Mr. Tobin Knox, who I had for psychology."
What's the best advice you've received? "Some of the best advice I have received from a teacher was that no matter what college I attend, I need to stay focused on advocating for myself and putting my best foot forward."
How has Shelton impacted your life? "Shelton has provided me with a platform to carry into college. Not only have I learned skills for the classroom, but I have also learned to express myself confidently."
Would you recommend Shelton? "I would recommend Shelton to students who are not only struggling with a learning difference, but maybe feels as if they don't fit in at their school. Shelton welcomed me into a safe environment, which allowed me to enrich my social, personal and academic skills."
What advice do you have for new students? "If you are new to Shelton, don't stress about it being a new school. This is a safe place where you can actually be yourself. Embrace your learning difference and engage with all of the special opportunities you are offered at Shelton."
What are your college and career aspirations? "I applied to nine different universities. My plans are to study psychology/neuroscience in South Bend, Indiana, at the University of Notre Dame or Saint Mary's College this fall."
What is a fun/surprising fact about you? "After college, I would like to get my private pilot's license."
What are you looking forward to this year? "I am looking forward to graduating and taking the next step to college because I feel well prepared for this new journey."