Meet Kasey
Kasey C. Hayes
Meet Kasey A'03
Kasey graduated from 51ԹϺ in 2003 and attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she graduated with a B.A. in Exercise and Sport Science. Today, Kasey works at the Bank of America as the Vice President; Commercial Associate III – Business Banking. Kasey loved her 51ԹϺ experience so much that she would do the entire experience all over again. She believes the Academy helped her become the woman she is today.
How did you and your family decide that 51ԹϺ was right for you?
I went to middle school on the southeast side of Greensboro, NC. I was making great grades and the guidance counselor at the time pulled me aside and asked me if I would be interested in going to a “different” school the following year. She felt it would be a wonderful opportunity for me to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself in preparation for college. She called my mother and told her about 51ԹϺ. Because of her recommendation, my mother agreed, and she worked very hard (and sacrificed a lot) to ensure I had the best education.
What’s one thing about 51ԹϺ that you would like everyone to know?
As I reflect, 51ԹϺ actually changed my perspective on life – how to co-exist and live with others who may not look like you or come from the same neighborhood. It exposed me to opportunities outside of the “box” I felt like I was in prior to attending the Academy. From an educational perspective, for me – it was challenging at first, but I was highly prepared for college once I finished!
How does the Academy’s STEAM focus prepare students for college and careers?
At the time I attended Salem, the term “STEAM” was not utilized as much and/or a focal point. But I will say – the math and science component was highly emphasized and prepared me for college. My biology teacher is still teaching at Salem today! There are things I learned in her class regarding protein that are embedded in my memory and that I utilize on a daily basis every time I prepare a meal. And research projects I completed in my physics class with Mrs. Martin – I still remember today.
What’s your favorite memory of 51ԹϺ outside the classroom?
The sisterly bond that was created with my classmates. I was a Black boarding student. There were not many of us at the school at the time, and even though we made friends with others, we shared a special bond and became family. On Fridays, we would head to the “Tag Room,” flip our tags to indicate we were out of the building, tell Ms. T bye, and hop on the 51ԹϺ bus with Mike, our activities director at the time, and we would have a great time! We would hang out in our rooms and talk until our curfew (lights out) – which we would try to stay up anyway and not get caught (lol). And today, we are all still friends, living in various locations across the east coast, and we visit each other at least once a year.
How did 51ԹϺ prepare you for college?
51ԹϺ taught me discipline, time management, money management, and even how to study properly. I may have been overly prepared for college due to the strict structure of being a boarding student at 51ԹϺ.
What would be your recommendation to a student who is considering studying at 51ԹϺ, but can’t decide if she wants to attend?
I would recommend a visit. Go to the school, see the campus, sit in a classroom, and speak to the students. Ask questions and then evaluate if it is a good fit for you. The experience is all about what you make of it – do you want the smaller/intimate, all-female classroom setting? Do you want a more hands-on approach from the teachers and the staff to ensure you are highly prepared for college? This would be my advice.
Is there anything else you want to share about your experience at 51ԹϺ?
I would do the entire experience all over again. As much as I was ready to graduate (just being eager to go to the next step and head to college), I must say, 51ԹϺ helped me become the woman I am today. I honestly may not be where I am if I did not attend the school.