When Samara first walked through the doors of Summit Sierra as a ninth grader, she had no idea that decision would change the course of her future. At her previous school, she struggled with an environment that lacked structure and focus—where college wasn’t talked about, opportunities were scarce, and students didn’t take learning seriously. She knew she needed more.
“I wanted a school that would push me toward my goals,” she says. “I needed a place where I could grow, where college was a priority, and where I could see a clear future for myself.” She found that—and so much more—at Summit Sierra, a charter public high school in Seattle that emphasizes personalized learning, mentorship, and college preparation. Now, as a high school senior, Samara has been accepted to Howard University, Xavier University, Hampton University, Louisiana State University, and Seattle University. She’s also awaiting decisions from the University of Washington and UCLA.
“Seeing That First Acceptance Was Unreal”
For Samara, attending college isn’t just an achievement—it’s a statement.
“When I started getting acceptance letters, it felt surreal,” she admits. “I knew I had put in the work, but to actually see those ‘Congratulations’ emails coming in? It was different. I don’t have many people in my family who have gone to college, so this is a huge milestone.”
Samara’s success is no accident. Summit Sierra’s 100% college-ready graduation rate ensures that every student receives the individualized support they need to prepare for higher education. That includes mentorship, self-paced learning, and hands-on college application guidance.
“I always wanted to go to college, but before attending Summit, I didn’t have the tools to make it happen,” she says. “Here, they walked me through financial aid, applications, and scholarships—things I wouldn’t have known how to do on my own.”
The Power of Majorette: Finding Her Passion Through Dance
While Summit provided her with academic structure, it was the school’s Expeditions program partnered with Baile Dior, that helped Samara discover one of the biggest joys in her life—majorette dance.
“Majorette is about confidence, discipline, and teamwork,” she explains. “It’s a whole culture, especially at HBCUs, and that’s why I fell in love with it.”
What started as an elective class soon became a defining part of her life. The Director of Baile Dior Studios saw her talent and invited her to join a competitive majorette team, where she’s since performed at Black History Month celebrations, state fairs, and parades.
Through dance, Samara learned skills that extended far beyond the stage. “Majorette taught me discipline—how to push myself beyond my limits,” she says. “That mindset has helped me in school, too. Whether it’s in dance or academics, I always want to strive for my best.”
A Commitment to Mental Health and Black Excellence
Samara’s passion for psychology and criminology is deeply personal. Growing up in Seattle’s diverse communities, she saw firsthand the mental health disparities that disproportionately affect people of color.
“There are so many barriers to mental health care, especially in Black communities,” she says. “Too many people don’t have access to the support they need. I want to be part of changing that.”
At Summit, she explored her interests in psychology through AP Literature courses, research projects, and a psychology-focused Expedition program. Now, she hopes to earn a PhD in clinical psychology and work at the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.
“I want to understand why people make the choices they do,” she says. “And more importantly, I want to help create solutions that lead to better outcomes.”
The Role of Mentorship and School Choice
Samara credits much of her growth to Summit’s strong mentorship culture. Each week, students participate in “Circle” discussions, where they talk openly about challenges they’re facing—whether academic or personal.
“It’s a space where you can be vulnerable,” she explains. “At my old school, I didn’t feel emotionally safe. Here, I have teachers and mentors who actually listen and care.”
Her mentor at Summit has been a steady source of guidance throughout her high school journey.
“I’ve learned that asking for help isn’t a weakness,” she says. “It’s a strength. And having people who genuinely want to see you succeed? That makes all the difference.”
Washington’s charter public schools play a critical role in providing students—especially first-generation college students and students of color—access to high-quality, free public education designed to meet their needs.
“Summit gave me everything I needed,” she says. “I had support, I had opportunities, and I had people who believed in me.”
A Future Full of Possibilities
As Samara prepares to make her final college decision, she’s taking a moment to reflect on her journey.“I started at Summit unsure of what my future would look like,” she says. “Now, I know exactly where I’m headed.”
Her advice to other students? “Don’t settle. Find a school that pushes you, that supports you, and that makes you excited about learning. Because when you have that, the possibilities are endless.”