The whole state of North Carolina is here!

Well, not really. But the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Class of 2027 sure makes it feel that way, with just over 500 new Residential juniors from all over the state now calling NCSSM home. Another 251 in the NCSSM Online program are adding advanced Science and Math courses to their academic routines.

Mattie Gaddy-Parks, who leads NCSSM’s recruiting and admissions efforts as Director of Admissions, says successfully enrolling a superlative class of juniors is a statewide effort. 

“Elevating NCSSM to the number one high school twice in three years – not just in Durham or Morganton or North Carolina, but in the country – is always phenomenal,” she says, referring to the Niche.com rankings. “I always tell everybody that though we have an amazing team here of faculty and staff, the schools and the districts where these students come to us from play a huge part, too, because they laid the foundation.” 

“It’s always exciting to get to know the new class of Unicorns and Dragons each year,” says Todd Roberts, NCSSM’s chancellor. “Students from every region of the state, who each bring so much to our community, all come together here to form a new extended family where they learn from and share with each other and their seniors. I never cease to be amazed by their spirit, and inspired by who they are and what they do.”

Meet some of the newest Residential and Online students who have just embarked upon what will surely become two of the most memorable and formative years of their lives:

I’m hoping to take advantage of leadership opportunities, and be involved in the Morganton community as well. We’re such a tight group here at NCSSM, and Morganton is like a small community, too. I feel like I’ll be able to be part of both.”

—Kristin Knowles (middle), NCSSM-Morganton

I love nerdy stuff, but I also love playing soccer, and am part of the soccer team here. There are so many people here who are just the same way; they hit the books regularly, but are into athletics, too, and it’s all perfectly normal.”

—Sebastian Ramirez, NCSSM-Durham

NCSSM has by far exceeded all my expectations. When I came in, the main thing I was nervous about was building connections with people, but everybody here is super nice and very approachable. There’s always someone to talk to and they’re willing to help you if you have any struggles. That’s awesome.”

—Aarav Patel, NCSSM-Morganton

We come from all different parts of North Carolina, but I feel like we are all the same in some way. Everyone and everything here – my surroundings, the classes, the students, the teachers – all make me feel like, wow, this is where I’m supposed to be. I love it here so much.”

—Jane Cockburn, NCSSM-Durham

I realized I wasn’t living up to what I’m capable of, so I changed my mindset. I’m glad I have these NCSSM-Online courses because they are another step towards achieving my full potential.”

—Parker Biggerstaff, NCSSM-Online

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