Senior Spotlight: Brianna Finds Her Voice and Path Forward at Coast to Mountains Prep
For Brianna, a senior at Coast to Mountains Preparatory Academy (CM Prep) in North Carolina, high school has been a journey of resilience, growth, and ultimately, self-discovery.
Before enrolling at CM Prep, Brianna’s experience in traditional public school left her feeling misunderstood and exhausted. “I was always getting in trouble for things I didn’t do,” she recalled. “I looked at my mom and said, ‘I just can’t do this anymore.’” That moment sparked a change that would transform her academic and personal path. Encouraged by her brother’s positive experience with online learning, Brianna and her family discovered CM Prep—and she hasn’t looked back.
At CM Prep, Brianna found more than just a flexible school schedule—she found a community that made her feel seen and supported. “The teachers are super nice, and so are the students,” she said. “Everyone is free to be themselves, and even though we learn virtually, there’s still a strong sense of connection. You don’t have to be in person to feel supported.”
That support system made all the difference. With guidance from her teachers and encouragement from classmates, Brianna saw her grades improve and her confidence soar. “I just don’t feel alone anymore,” she shared.
Living in Greenville, North Carolina, Brianna values the flexibility online learning provides—especially as she thinks ahead to the future. After graduation, she plans to attend Pitt Community College to pursue early childhood education, a field she’s always felt drawn to. “I’ve always loved kids,” she said. “I know I want to help them learn and grow.”
While she dreams of one day attending Meredith College, Brianna is choosing to start her higher education journey closer to home. “I’m just not ready to leave my nest yet,” she laughed. “Community college gives me the chance to stay close to family while still preparing for my future.”
As she approaches graduation, Brianna is excited to celebrate with family and friends—and she plans to attend CM Prep’s in-person graduation ceremony. “We’ll probably go out to eat afterward,” she said with a smile, “and I’m planning a party in June.”
Reflecting on her time at CM Prep, Brianna emphasizes the unique value of online education: independence, support, and the freedom to be yourself. “You’re on your own timing,” she explained. “You don’t have to sit in a classroom all day worrying about people judging you. You just focus on your work and your goals.”
Her message for future CM Prep students? “Just don’t give up. The teachers and students here really care about you, and you can succeed—even when it feels tough.”
With her graduation on the horizon and a clear vision for her future, Brianna is proof that when students are given the right environment, they can truly thrive.