AVONDALE - Earlier this summer, Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy (TJCA) senior Sophia Smart was selected to attend the prestigious North Carolina Governor’s School, an honor extended only to the state's most academically gifted students. Reflecting on her experience, Smart describes it as nothing short of transformative, an opportunity she wishes every student could undergo.
"Governor’s School was an absolutely unparalleled experience, one I wish everyone got a chance to undergo," Smart shared.
Despite initial reservations, she quickly realized that the program was far more than just a summer academic endeavor.
"When I was applying to Governor’s School, the people in my life who had gone before me were fervently encouraging me to do so,” said Smart. “In their words, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,' but to me, it was summer school. Despite my initial reluctance to spend a month of my summer away from my friends, family, and all of the fun at home, by the end of my four weeks at Governor’s School I was reluctant to return."
The North Carolina Governor’s School is a summer residential program for intellectually gifted high school students. It offers studies in academics, the arts, and disciplines not typically available in high school. Smart was selected for English, a subject she is particularly passionate about. However, she quickly discovered that the program's true value extended beyond academic learning.
"It turns out Governor’s School is not summer school. It was not exclusively about learning or showing off how smart you were; it was about the community. I can confidently say that everyone I met was kind, and even more importantly, they were passionate; passionate about the saxophone, passionate about sailing, passionate about spikeball, even," she said. "Being around kind people is incredible, but being around passionate people is inspiring."
During her time in Raleigh, Smart engaged in rigorous academic discussions and creative projects that pushed the boundaries of her thinking. The program's unique environment, which fosters both intellectual and personal growth, left a lasting impact on her.
"I went to Governor’s School for English, and I’m sure I left a better writer, but ultimately, I think I left a better teammate, a better student, and a better person,” said Smart. “I left Governor’s School inspired to take on the impending thing that is college and excited for the new experiences and people that will come in tandem."
The experience not only helped Smart sharpen her writing skills but also provided her with a supportive community of like-minded individuals, many of whom she now considers lifelong friends.
"In a matter of four weeks, I made lifelong friends and learned lifelong lessons," she reflected.
Smart is enthusiastic about encouraging other students at TJCA to apply for the program in the future.
"Next summer, I would encourage anyone and everyone to apply — even if you’re unsure. I hope that more students from TJCA can go in the future and experience the community that is Governor’s School,” she said.
As she returns to TJCA now for her senior year, Smart brings with her a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for the future, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.