APA panel briefs on College, COVID, and confidence

Eight graduates of Parrott Academy returned to the school’s campus for panel discussions about college life on January 5th and 6th. “We’ve had this tradition for more than ten years,” commented college adviser Mitzi Moye, who helped plan for two socially distanced discussion events.  

“Because of COVID, 2020 graduates who have just finished their freshman year haven’t had quite the normal fall semester. So most of our returnees this time are sophomores, with one freshman for added perspective,” Moye explained. 

Kinston students Aliza Matthews, William McPhaul, and Paige Davis were panelists along with Sam Okonkwo, Ridge Lewis, Jeff Bland, Sarah Frances Bailey, and Anelisa Holder. They discussed the college applications process, surprising discoveries at college, and facing challenges ranging from mastering a syllabus to managing a bank account.  

Holder commented that a big surprise during her first college semester was the fun of dorm life. “The freshmen right now are missing all that, having to be self-reliant and doing most of their courses online.” Several noted that one bright spot this semester is that more internships are being offered online, which creates new opportunities. 

Summing up, sophomore Ridge Lewis told the high school audience, “College is where you can develop your individuality and be open to new things. My advice is find your confidence.”