Meet Heron’s 2024-2025 Student of the Year: Tarissa 

When Tarissa graduated from Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina in May 2025, she earned more than a diploma – she earned the honor of being named Heron’s High School Student of the Year. With contagious energy, a love for uplifting others and an eye on the future, Tarissa is now preparing for her next big adventure: Basic Combat Training (BCT) in Georgia. 

A Speech Filled with Gratitude and Advice 

As the only student speaker at graduation, Tarissa used the moment to reflect on her journey and inspire her classmates. 

“Most of my speech was focused on gratitude,” Tarissa explained. “And then the rest of it was advice – life advice. And there was a little humor in it, too.” 

The honor of Student of the Year came as a surprise to her. 

“I didn’t even know I became Student of the Year until my parents told me,” she laughed. 

Finding Her Fit at Heron 

Tarissa joined Heron Virtual Academy as a junior and quickly discovered that Heron’s pacing, teachers, and community fit her needs. 

“I heard incredible things about Heron, like fun classes, amazing teachers, and even outings where I could meet them in real life,” she said. “I loved it. I would love to go back and just hop in, like, ‘What’s up, people!?’” 

Virtual learning also gave her the tools to succeed academically and personally. 

“It was hard at first, but then I made myself a schedule to stay focused,” Tarissa shared. “With ADHD, you can zone out, but Heron helped me focus and stay on track.” 

She especially valued the strong relationships she built with her teachers. 

“It felt like my teacher was my best friend or like a sibling,” she said. “That’s how much we interacted with our teachers and mentors. They brought a family vibe.” 

Motivating Others is Her Motivation 

Known affectionately as “T” among her teachers and classmates, Tarissa made it her mission to keep others motivated. 

“There would be some days at school where people wouldn’t answer questions,” she said. “So, I’d jump in and make it fun – give people a silly nickname or something. I like uplifting people. I like to make people smile and laugh.” 

Her joyful, encouraging spirit made a lasting impression during her time at Heron and a key reason she was chosen as Student of the Year. 

The Next Chapter: Serving in the United States Army 

Tarissa is preparing to begin Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson in Georgia this November where she will train for up to 10 weeks. 

“My dad was the first person who talked to me about the Army,” she shared. “I dug a little deeper, got more interested, and now I think he’s regretting it,” she added with a laugh. 

While she initially considered pursuing photography, she’s now exploring opportunities in armor and artillery. Whatever path she takes, Tarissa is motivated by the chance to serve while building a solid foundation for her future. 

Preparing for the Journey 

As she prepares for Army life, Tarissa carries the lessons she learned at Heron. 

“I love people,” she said simply. “I like to make people smile. I like to make people laugh.” 

With her contagious energy and positive outlook, there’s no doubt Tarissa will bring the same spirit that made her a leader at Heron into her next chapter of service. 

Is Online Learning Right for You? 

Explore Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina 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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