Welcome to PCIA’s new Student Profile blog series, where we help you get to know a little more about each of our all-star students! While we’re proud of our academically rigorous, STEM-focused program, we also know how important it is to take a break from work sometimes, and make space for some of the more fun aspects of life, like getting to know your classmates. PCIA is known for its focus on building strong relationships, not just between students and faculty, but among peers as well.

All of our students come from different academic backgrounds, and each has come to PCIA with the desire to be challenged academically and with the intent to build a satisfying future and life after high school, whatever that means for them. PCIA students go on to 2- and 4-year colleges and universities, technical degree programs, and some enter the workforce right away after graduation. We hope that by getting to know some of the students who already attend PCIA, you might begin to envision your own bright future right alongside them.

Anna Raymond

Grade: 9th
Favorite subject: History
Activities/clubs: Robotics and Knowledge Bowl

What project or assignment challenged you the most as a student? Why?

The bridge design because it caused me to think out of the box and work through each of the problems in engineering. I was also required to be delicate which is something that usually isn’t my style.The bridge design and testing project that tests the student’s ability to think with an engineers mind, research more about subjects that they wouldn’t originally think about, think of how forces interact with a bridge, and build the best bridge you possibly can with only popsicle sticks and wood glue.

What was the most enjoyable book you’ve read for school this year?

Man’s Search for Meaning. I love how this book dives into the mind and picks it apart with deep precision and accuracy.

Which subject do you think will prepare you most for life after high school? Why?

Physics because it dives into the basics of what makes our lives scientific and makes you think deeper while slowly raising confidence because Mr. Van Duzor is great at making you think and raising confidence

What is your favorite class in school? Why is it your favorite?

Robotics because it opens my creative mind and lets me zone into my inner world and think about problems rationally and creatively.

Do you prefer group or individual work in school? Explain.

I prefer working in a group because it’s nice to build a community where we can all learn to trust each other and get to know one-another better!

What personality traits make someone a good friend?

Honesty, kindness, compassion, empathy.

What is something that makes you really happy?

Talking to my friends or occupying my mind with a good book

What advice do you have for new PCIA students?

Get to know everyone! Even if you’re an introvert, everyone here is amazing and a really good person! It’s worth the initial embarrassment of stumbling with words because you meet so many amazing people. Also, trust yourself but ask any question you have at any opportunity! 

Learn More

At PCIA, we’re here to help you choose the future that’s right for you, and make sure you have all the support you need along the way. Visit our application page to get started.