How LAVCA Helped Zoe Soar: A Valedictorian’s Journey to NYU and Beyond 

At Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy (LAVCA), success looks different for every student—but it always starts with possibility. For Zoe, a driven, high-achieving student with big dreams and even bigger determination, that possibility came to life through a flexible, empowering learning model that helped her become valedictorian, win prestigious scholarships, and pave the way to New York University. 

Zoe’s journey from a bullied seventh grader seeking a safe learning space to a confident future lawyer studying at NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study is a powerful testament to what students can accomplish when they have the right support and environment to thrive. 

Zoe’s decision to leave traditional schooling was rooted in a desire for something more—more challenge, more support, and more freedom to be herself. 

“I needed a space where I could focus on learning without distractions or negativity,” Zoe shares. “LAVCA gave me that. It gave me room to grow, to be challenged, and to find out what I’m really capable of.” 

At LAVCA, Zoe found the academic rigor and personal flexibility she was craving. The online format allowed her to move at her own pace and dive deeper into the subjects she loved. It also opened the door for opportunities outside the classroom, including an internship as a U.S. Senate page and active involvement in the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program, which provides career and college readiness opportunities to promising students. 

JAG became a turning point in Zoe’s development as a leader and communicator when she participated in the National JAG Convention and became a top 4 finalist for national office. While she didn’t win, she walked away with more than just a nomination—she gained confidence, public speaking skills, and a strong sense of direction. 

“JAG taught me how to tell my story, how to lead, and how to connect with others,” she says. “It helped me believe in my voice and my ability to make a difference.” 

That belief in herself would carry Zoe through one of her proudest accomplishments: being named a recipient of the highly competitive Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship, awarded to just 60 students nationwide out of more than 40,000 applicants. The scholarship covers up to $55,000 annually for four years, and may even extend to law school. 

Zoe’s acceptance to NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study marks the next chapter in her extraordinary journey. There, she’ll design her own major blending political science, sociology, women’s studies, and public relations—all with the goal of pursuing law and becoming a voice for equality and justice. 

“The freedom I had at LAVCA to think independently and manage my time prepared me so well for Gallatin,” Zoe explains. “I’m not afraid to chart my own path because I’ve already been doing it for years.” 

Zoe’s success isn’t just defined by grades and scholarships—it’s also found in the relationships she built and the resilience she developed. She recalls being crowned prom queen at LAVCA’s in-person event as a moment of joyful connection after years of virtual learning. 

“It meant so much because it showed me that even though we’re learning online, we’re not alone,” Zoe says. “We’re still part of a community.” 

Behind every successful student is a support system. For Zoe, that included educators who went above and beyond, and her mother, who stood by her decision to pursue virtual education from the start. 

“My mom believed in me when I chose a different path,” Zoe says. “She saw my leadership qualities before I did and helped me make choices that put me in a position to succeed.” 

Zoe’s advice to students considering virtual school? Stay motivated, communicate with your teachers, and don’t be afraid to be different. 

“Virtual learning isn’t the easy way out—it’s a challenge that builds discipline and independence,” she says. “But if you’re willing to do the work, it can take you anywhere.” 

As Zoe prepares to step onto the NYU campus this fall, she does so with her head held high and her future wide open. With the support of LAVCA, the empowerment of programs like JAG, and the transformative opportunity of the Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, she’s ready to make an impact in law, leadership, and beyond. 

“LAVCA helped me become who I am today,” Zoe reflects. “It gave me the space to dream big—and the tools to make those dreams real.” 

Her story is just one example of how LAVCA is redefining what success can look like—for every student, on their own terms. 

Want your student to thrive—academically and socially—just like Zoe? Discover how Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy can open doors to personalized learning and a successful future. Learn more today.   

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