Lyan’s high school journey has been truly impressive. Throughout her time at RCSA, she has demonstrated outstanding academic dedication and perseverance by completing 13 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and an exceptional 17 dual enrollment classes. With a remarkable weighted GPA of 4.7377, Lyan has consistently challenged herself with rigorous coursework and has shown a strong commitment to academic excellence.

Lyan’s achievements extend beyond academics. Her determination, maturity, and clear sense of purpose have made her a valued member of our school community and an inspiring role model for her peers.

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Lyan for a short interview to learn more about her experiences, future goals, and reflections on this exciting accomplishment.

Congratulations to Lyan on this outstanding milestone, and we look forward to seeing all that she will achieve at Florida State University and beyond!

What was your first reaction when you found out you got accepted to Florida State University?

I was honestly overwhelmed with happiness and relief. I had spent most of senior year feeling anxious about college decisions, and FSU had always been one of my dream schools in Florida. I was having a really bad day when I opened the decision and seeing that I was accepted completely turned everything around. It gave me a sense of peace and reassurance that my hard work had paid off.

What do you plan to study at FSU, and what excites you most about it?

I plan to study Political Science because I’ve always loved history and politics. I’m especially interested in debating important issues and understanding how policies are created and implemented. What excites me most is learning how laws and public policies directly impact people’s everyday lives. I’m passionate about exploring how government decisions shape communities and how I can one day be part of that process.

What activities or experiences do you think helped your application stand out?

I believe being involved in meaningful extracurricular activities made a strong difference in my application. I worked at the YMCA, helped with after-school programs, and served as a teacher aide, which showed my commitment to leadership and community involvement. I also participated in debate and other activities connected to my intended field of study. Being involved in things I genuinely cared about allowed me to grow and demonstrate both dedication and passion.

What role did River City Science Academy play in shaping your academic journey?

River City Science Academy played a major role in shaping who I am academically. The rigor of the coursework and the dedication of the teachers pushed me far beyond what I initially thought I was capable of. When I compare my experience to other schools, I truly see how much effort and care RCSA puts into preparing its students. The wide range of extracurricular opportunities also allowed me to explore my interests and grow in different areas.

How would you describe the learning environment at River City Science Academy?

I would describe the learning environment as supportive but academically challenging. At times, it can feel high-pressure, but that pressure ultimately pushes students to grow and strive for excellence. The expectations encourage discipline, responsibility, and resilience. 

Were there any teachers or mentors who had a big impact on you?

Yes, many of my teachers had a significant impact on me, especially the ones who were the toughest on me. Like Ms.Viggiano and Mr.Crotty, when I was younger, I sometimes took their strictness personally, but I later realized they were pushing me to become a stronger and more capable student. Their high expectations helped me break out of my comfort zone and aim higher. They taught me that growth often comes from being challenged.

What advice would you give to students dreaming of top universities?

I would advise students to stay dedicated and disciplined while also choosing activities that genuinely benefit and interest them. It’s important not to overwhelm yourself to the point of exhaustion, but you should still challenge yourself academically and personally. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone or make mistakes, growth comes from those experiences. Most importantly, stay focused on your long-term goals and remember that small setbacks in high school don’t define your future.

How do you hope to make a difference in the world through your education?

I plan to attend law school after completing my undergraduate degree. Eventually, I am very interested in entering politics so that I can help create meaningful change through policy and advocacy. I hope to serve not only Americans but also contribute positively on a global level. Through education and leadership, I want to be in a position where I can make decisions that improve people’s lives.

About Florida State University (FSU)

Florida State University (FSU), located in Tallahassee, is one of the nation’s leading public research universities and a top-ranked institution in the state of Florida. Recognized for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to student success, FSU offers more than 300 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across a wide range of fields. The university is home to over 45,000 students and is known for excellence in areas such as business, engineering, education, social sciences, and the arts. With a growing national reputation, a strong alumni network, and outstanding opportunities for research, internships, and leadership development, Florida State University provides students with the foundation to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.