Student Spotlight: 16-Year-Old Graduate Sets His Sights on Becoming a Firefighter 

Sammy, a 16-year-old student from Bakersfield, is proof that when students are given the right environment to learn, there is no limit to what they can achieve. Sammy finished 11th grade at iQ Academy of Los Angeles (iQLA) and crossed the graduation stage on May 29. He plans to attend Bakersfield College after graduation to earn the medical certifications required to become a firefighter and serve his community. 

A Future Built on Purpose 

Sammy has always known that he wants a career where he can show up for people in their most difficult moments. Becoming a firefighter is about showing up for his community when it matters. Southern California continues to face some of the most devastating wildfire seasons on record, and Sammy is stepping up to be part of the solution in his own hometown. 

He will pursue two certifications after graduation through Bakersfield College that will put him on the path to the fire service, a goal he has been working toward with the support of his iQLA teachers and counselors. 

Finding His Path Through Online Learning 

Sammy started at iQLA in 2021, after his family decided to transition away from brick-and-mortar school during the pandemic. What began as a practical choice quickly became something much greater. 

“When I first started, it was something new. Getting used to it took time, but after the first year, I got the hang of it, and it seemed like a good fit for me,” Sammy said. 

Once he settled into the rhythm of online learning, Sammy discovered that iQLA gave him something he did not have before: time and energy to invest in himself. 

“Back when I used to go to brick-and-mortar school, I was just tired all the time. Online school gives me more energy, more passion,” he said. “There was a lot of support, a lot of teachers there at any time to help me with my homework and assignments. I really enjoyed it.” 

The well-organized structure of iQLA’s platform made it easy for Sammy to stay on top of his coursework, while his teachers’ accessibility meant he never had to struggle alone for long. 

“I sent an email out requesting help, and in less than 30 minutes, I already had my response. It was really active and really easy to get help,” he said. 

Getting a Head Start Through Dual Enrollment 

One of the biggest turning points in Sammy’s academic journey was discovering iQLA’s dual enrollment program, which allowed him to take college-level courses through Norco college while still in high school. Those extra credits are what made graduating at 16 possible. 

“Dual enrollment helped me, for sure. I took extra classes to give me those extra credits, and I got here,” Sammy said. 

His daily schedule also gave him the space to grow outside the classroom. In addition to his studies, Sammy plays baseball and has been playing piano and guitar for six years. He credits iQLA with giving him the room to pursue those passions alongside his academics. 

“Online school gives me time to practice an instrument, more time going out with my family, and just more opportunities,” he said. 

A Teacher Who Made the Difference 

When asked about a teacher who made a meaningful impact, Sammy pointed to Mr. G, a teacher he says he will never forget. 

“He’s made the experience 100 times better. He’s given me contact information for many people for new opportunities. He connected me with other teachers and counselors, and through one of them, I applied to college. I’m just very thankful to Mr. G,” Sammy said. 

That kind of personal investment from iQLA staff is what helped Sammy go from struggling in middle school to graduating two years early with a clear plan for his future. 

“When I was in middle school, I was failing two of my classes. I wasn’t a straight-A student. Once I came online, it was just a better environment for me. I learned a lot, and my family is proud that I started to succeed academically,” he said. 

Looking Ahead 

Sammy walked across the graduation stage, surrounded by family who have watched him grow from a student finding his footing to a young man with a plan, a purpose, and the drive to follow through on both. 

For students who are considering online school, Sammy’s advice is simple: 

“If you’re looking for something that will help you learn, manage your time, and give yourself time to learn new skills, this is really for you. You’ll have a lot of help academically, and it just opens your career paths into the future.” 

Congratulations, Sammy, and good luck in your future endeavors! 

To learn more about iQ Academy Los Angeles and how students can build strong academic habits in an online environment, visit the enrollment page and explore your options. 

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