Recent Graduate, NHS Member Excels in Classes, Finds Time to Volunteer

By Leslie Cranford, Section Manager

Like many Texas Tech University High School (TTUHS) students, Annie Doherty didn't feel she was getting all she could out of her traditional school situation.

"My local public high school was really hard for me academically, and I wasn't able to fully reach my academic potential there, so I decided to try online school," said Annie, who is from the Dallas area.

She started homeschooling through TTU K-12 her sophomore year, and as a senior she was inducted into the Raiderland Chapter of National Honor Society. Annie recently completed her graduation requirements.

"Since I have more free time during the week, I spend that time on volunteering at my local Meals on Wheels center and deliver meals to the clients," she said. "I usually deliver 10-12 meals each route."

Annie says she delivers the routes with her mom, because it's a great way for them to spend time together before she leaves for college. She has been accepted to and plans on attending Texas Christian University in the fall.

"Since I was able to graduate early through TTU K-12, I will be taking some classes at my local community college starting in January, to get some of the core classes finished," Annie explained. "I will take more in the summer and start college with a semester of credits completed."

Having always enjoyed science and math, Annie's favorite classes through TTUHS were Environmental Science and Pre-Cal. As of now she wants to be a dermatologist, but she could change her mind at any point.

For other students who may be considering a path different than the "norm," she has some advice.

"Taking a different direction than your friends is okay! Starting TTU K-12 was the best thing I've ever done for myself. It taught me how to become consistent when starting something new. I have loved every minute of it and definitely recommend it."