The global perspective, writing strength and critical thinking skills that Anna Cecilia Akins developed through her Cambridge courses at Aiken High School made her feel ready before starting her next chapter at Furman University in Fall 2026. After finding success in dual enrollment courses during her senior year, she realized the impact a strong academic foundation can have.
Beyond academics, “Cambridge influenced me in that it got me thinking about the world as a whole, as opposed to my little section of the world,” Akins said, a mindset that broadened her horizons. While she always knew she wanted to attend college and pursue a meaningful career, her Cambridge education helped guide her direction.
“Cambridge classes helped me understand different ways of thinking, which then made me think of areas of study I hadn't considered before,” she said.
Akins is attending Furman University with plans to study sustainability science and Spanish. Though she’s keeping an open mind to new interests and experiences that come her way, she’s already looking toward law school or a career in environmental policy down the road.
The Cambridge approach to learning offered an experience unlike any other class, Akins said. Through the real-world application of accumulated knowledge, students are encouraged to think broadly, make meaningful connections across disciplines, and approach problems with a critical eye.
That’s why graduating with a Cambridge AICE Diploma felt meaningful to her. Not only did the advanced coursework help her earn top 5 ranking in her class, but “saying that I have an international Cambridge Diploma makes me feel unique,” she said. “It makes me feel like that’s something that stands out, that I can achieve an international level diploma.”
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