What if that summer trip you’ve been dreaming about wasn’t just a vacation—but a step toward changing your future and the world?
This summer, Gyselle Ready, a junior at ASU Prep Digital, is packing her bags for Brown University’s prestigious Experiential Education Program in Oxford, England, where she’ll focus on leadership and critical issues shaping policymaking.
Gyselle has always loved history, but in eighth grade, a book sparked something bigger. The story featured a main character whose mom was president, and it got Gyselle thinking, “I could go into politics. I’m passionate about helping other people. This is something I could do.”
The program will give her a deeper understanding of how she can create meaningful change through public policy.
A passion for policy
Gyselle isn’t new to exploring big ideas. Last summer, she attended the National History Academy in Virginia, where she deepened her appreciation for American democracy and learned about defining moments in U.S. history.
“I remember learning about veto powers and visiting all these historic sites with other students who were also involved in civic engagement,” she says. “Talking to them, I started to think, maybe I want to go into public policy. Maybe I want to be the one making laws to help people instead of just enforcing them.”
“When I saw Brown University had a program in Oxford about public policy, I thought, this is the thing for me. I have to do this,” Gyselle shares, her excitement evident. “I really want to learn about leadership, making tough decisions and drafting policies. And leadership isn’t just being in charge. It’s about being a good listener, hearing other people’s ideas and lifting people up.”
The program, which brings together students from around the world to discuss global challenges, offers a deep look into how policies are designed to solve complex societal issues. Gyselle is also looking forward to immersing herself in England’s rich culture. She shares lightheartedly that overhearing the charming accents and snapping a bucket-list selfie in front of Buckingham Palace are high on her agenda!
Empowered by ASU Prep Digital
Gyselle’s acceptance into such a competitive program came as no surprise to those who know her. Her ASU Prep Digital Learning Success Coach, Terry Henry, is quick to praise her.
“She is one of the finest young people I’ve interacted with during my 21 years in education,” Henry notes. “Her maturity, emotional intelligence and academic skills place her performance above that of other students. Gyselle consistently earns top grades, recently scored a composite 30 on the ACT and demonstrates leadership in everything she does.”
Henry also highlights Gyselle’s positive impact on her peers. Whether excelling as a peer tutor or competing in mock trial events, her communication skills and cheerful demeanor inspire those around her.
Gyselle deeply values the support she receives from Henry, saying, “He knows me so well. He knows about my siblings and what I’m doing in the community. It’s nice to know there’s someone in your corner who always has your back.”
That spirit of connection extends to all her educators at ASU Prep Digital. “All of my teachers are so kind and engaging. They reach out, they call me, they ask how I’m doing. I feel like the connections are deeper and I’ve really found a joy in learning,” she shares.
Initially joining ASU Prep Digital as a part-time student during her sophomore year, Gyselle transitioned to full-time enrollment and hasn’t looked back. The school’s flexible approach has empowered her to excel in rigorous college-level courses such as Mandarin, while still carving out time for her personal passions like singing and reading.
The program’s flexibility, one of the many benefits of online school, has also given her more cherished moments with her family, including her younger brother, who is also an ASUPD student. “I honestly don’t think I would have gotten to form this connection with him if I were at a traditional school,” she reflects. “I’m really grateful for that, especially since I’ll be a senior next year and going off to college after that.”
Planning for the future
For Gyselle, the Oxford program is a stepping stone in her greater mission to lead with empathy and inspire change. She views public policy as a powerful tool to create meaningful impact and drive solutions that truly make a difference.
“I’ve shifted my focus to the environment and civil rights. At the end of the day, this is the world we all live in and someone needs to step up to make it fair and ensure opportunities are accessible to everyone.”
She credits her parents as role models, admiring their commitment to family and community. Her mother, an attorney, inspires her with a tireless dedication to helping others, while her father’s warmth and adept people skills motivate her to connect with others in meaningful ways.
Gyselle is clear about her long-term goals, although the exact path is still taking shape.
“I know I want to be somebody for the people,” she shares. “Whether that’s as a lawmaker, a senator or even a Supreme Court justice, I want to be in a position of power where I can make a difference. I don’t want to just sit at home reading the news and feeling sad about the world—I want to be part of the solution.”
“People are definitely going to see me on their ballot,” she adds, a bold declaration of her vision for the future.
Her advice for other students considering ambitious goals is simple yet powerful. “If you’re interested in something, go for it,” she says. “Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do it because they don’t know what your future holds. Look for opportunities, ask questions and see where life takes you.”
Unlocking potential with ASU Prep Digital
Gyselle’s story is a powerful reminder that passion, hard work and the right support can lead to extraordinary opportunities. From her leadership ambitions to the exciting path ahead at Oxford, she exemplifies what’s possible with ASU Prep Digital, where students with big dreams are thriving every day.
Whether it’s pursuing Olympic swimming goals, building a dance career, aiming for the Navy or becoming a global chess star, our flexible and supportive environment helps turn aspirations into achievements.
Explore ASU Prep Digital today and discover how we empower students to excel academically while chasing their unique dreams.
