We love the small size of our Academy of Tucson District. It allows us all to truly know - and value – each other. To that end, we reached out to recent AOT alumni to hear about where they are now and how their time with us has influenced their adult life.
At Academy of Tucson, we pride ourselves on our college prep program, and our recent graduates tell us that they felt well prepared for college after graduating from our high school. Carina Cruickshank-Taylor (‘18) says, “AOT provided many resources and prepared me for college. From attending AOT, I feel that I had better opportunities in receiving scholarships and recommendations.” Carina is majoring in Rehabilitation with a minor in American Sign Language and tells us “AOT has great education and has a great teacher to student ratio. The teachers are more than willing to help and there are many resources for success.”
Emily Nguyen (‘18), likes how Academy of Tucson “students are given opportunities to attend college courses while in high school.” She says that her AOT teachers taught her to use computers, software and email, which has really helped her at University of Arizona where she studies Veterinary Science.
Rebecca Amador (‘19) also appreciated the amount of support she received from AOT staff. She says, “The support is incredible and really allows for students to reach their full potential. There is a tremendous amount of help that is available and a lot of opportunity to grow”. Rebecca is at University of Arizona and studies nursing while volunteering at a hospital and training to be an EMT.
“The connection with the teachers is amazing!” says Lorelei St. Clair (‘19), who studies Astronomy and Physics and Education at University of Arizona. At AOT, Lorelei most enjoyed the community. “Everybody knows everybody and everybody matters.” Lorelei took part in many clubs and sports during her time at Academy of Tucson and says, AOT was an incredible part of my journey through school, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. If you want real personality and critical thinking, come here.”
Academics are just part of the equation for producing successful graduates. Clubs, sports and other experiences also round out the profile of our students. Madison Goforth (‘18) says that some of her most rewarding experiences at Academy of Tucson were outside the classroom, attending field trips and a leadership conference. “I enjoyed that there were sports involved in my time in high school that allowed for time off from schoolwork, and bonding with some of the closest friends I have now.” Madison stays busy in her college career, double-majoring in Microbiology and Nutrition and Food systems, and a minor in Biochemistry at University of Arizona.
We love seeing our graduates achieve their dreams, and Elisa Whitby (‘19) has done that in her first year of college at Northern Arizona University. “I've accomplished my dreams to be in the Forestry program, and I am working with chainsaws and axes for competitions!” Elisa says, “I would suggest AOT if you like to be in touch with your teachers, have a close community, and if you really want to succeed and go to college!”
