Meet Adrina and Audrey – Twin Seniors Who Found Their Stride at NCVA 

For twins Adrina and Audrey, attending North Carolina Virtual Academy (NCVA) became a foundation that helped them grow into confident students, leaders and soon-to-be graduates with big plans for the future. 

Now seniors, the Rocky Mount-based sisters are preparing to cross the graduation stage together, reflecting on a virtual learning journey that began years earlier – just in time to change everything. 

A New Normal 

Adrina and Audrey joined NCVA during middle school, just before the pandemic. What started as a family decision quickly became their new normal. 

“At first, it was difficult for me,” Adrina admitted. “My grades actually started to drop when I first switched. But once I found my flow and learned how to manage my time, I really learned to love it.” 

Audrey’s adjustment came more quickly, though it still required patience. 

“At first it was a little hard,” she said. “Not too long after, I got the hang of it and then I really liked it.” 

Over time, both twins found their rhythm and discovered just how much virtual learning could work in their favor. 

Building Confidence – and Independence 

One of the biggest benefits of virtual learning, both say, is not just in the daily schedule, but in how they approach learning. 

“I don’t have to get up super early and get in the car to go to school,” Adrina said. “I can manage my schedule and decide how much time I need to finish my work.” 

Audrey agreed, adding that virtual learning helped her build responsibility. 

“I think the key is self-discipline,” she said. “You have to keep yourself on track and turn in your assignments on time. But once you do that, it really works.” 

That independence has paid off – both academically and personally – as they balance honors coursework, leadership roles, and jobs outside of school. 

Leaders Beyond the Classroom 

Both Adrina and Audrey are officers in the National Honor Society, stepping into leadership roles they never expected to pursue. 

“I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone,” Audrey said. “I had never held a leadership position before, so I thought, why not try?” 

Adrina echoed that growth. 

“I didn’t think it would be a big role at first,” she said. “But it taught me how to be a leader, not just a follower. I learned skills I didn’t even realize I was gaining at the time.” 

They’re also active in SkillsUSA, where they’ve participated in service projects and creative collaborations – experiences that helped them connect with other students and explore new interests. 

Making Real Connections – in a Virtual School 

While learning online, the twins still found ways to build meaningful relationships – including meeting classmates in person at events like prom and graduation activities. 

“We met one of our close friends at prom,” Audrey said. “It was really fun to finally meet people we’d been in class with.” 

Adrina added that virtual school hasn’t limited their friendships – it simply changed how they formed. 

“It’s still real school,” she said. “You have teachers, classmates, and live classes. It’s just virtual.” 

Inspiring Teachers Who Have Made an Impact 

Ask the twins about standout teachers, and their gratitude is immediate. 

“My all-time favorite teacher is Mr. Nytz,” Audrey said. “He tells stories that always connect back to the lesson, and you really learn from them.” 

Adrina credits multiple teachers for shaping her interests. 

“My psychology teacher really helped spark my interest in that field,” she said. “And I had the same math teacher throughout high school, which helped build a strong relationship.” 

Both emphasized how responsive and supportive NCVA teachers are – a key part of their success. 

“If you email a teacher during the day, they’ll usually respond really quickly,” Audrey said. “They’re always there when you need help.” 

Looking Ahead 

As graduation approaches, the twins are preparing to head in different academic directions – both driven by curiosity and ambition. 

“I want to study animal science and become a veterinarian,” Audrey said. “NC State is my top choice.” 

Adrina plans to pursue psychology, with her sights set on research. 

“I’m really interested in understanding how people think,” she said. “That’s what I want to focus on in college.” 

Though they’ll be taking separate paths, both agree NCVA gave them the tools they needed to succeed. 

Graduating Together … and Ready for What’s Next 

From managing their own schedules to leading clubs and preparing for college, both girls say virtual learning helped shape who they are today. 

“It depends on the person,” Audrey said. “Online school isn’t for everyone – but for us, it worked really well.” 

As graduation grows closer, their journey proves how the right support can empower students to succeed in a virtual environment. 

Is Online Learning Right for You? 

Explore North Carolina Virtual Academy and discover how our flexible online programs can empower your child to thrive, graduate early, and achieve their goals sooner. Click here to get started today! 

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