Global Academy at ASU Prep equips students with the tools and support they need to grow academically and chase their dreams.

One standout example is Julien Garrigus, a remarkable student whose aspirations and achievements embody the school’s innovative, student-focused approach to education.

Aiming high with the Civil Air Patrol

Julien isn’t your average high school student. He’s an active participant in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), a program that nurtures young leaders and helps them soar—literally! Through CAP, Julien gains hands-on experience in flying, develops leadership skills and stays active through activities like camping and hiking. These experiences are all part of his ultimate dream of becoming a pilot.

“Ever since I was a kid, I’ve dreamed of becoming an aviator. I’ve been working hard toward this goal, and so far, I have 12 hours of logged flight time and over 300 hours of ground school,” Julien shares.

The lessons Julien is learning aren’t limited to the cockpit. CAP is about more than earning accolades—it’s about building character, discipline and leadership skills. Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots and engineers began their journeys with CAP, and Julien is well on his way to joining their ranks. Whether immersing himself in ground school or preparing for his next rank of Staff Sergeant, Julien’s commitment to his dream is unwavering.

“ASUPG has been a huge help in pursuing my goals because it gives me the time and flexibility to balance both school and my professional training,” he explains.

Principal Rachel Maleski reflects on how the program has played a role in Julien’s success. “I met with Julien and his mom to discuss his graduation plan, and it was one of those meetings that wholly filled my cup as an educator,” she says proudly. Seeing Julien thrive both academically and personally, she adds, is a reminder of how the school’s adaptable approach is empowering students to achieve their unique dreams.

A perfect fit at Global Academy at ASU Prep

For Julien, school wasn’t always an inspiring experience. That changed when he joined Global Academy at ASU Prep. The school’s flexible, personalized learning model proved to be exactly what Julien needed to thrive. 

Maleski highlights how Julien has found value in the unique approach, saying, “He told me our coursework and teachers inspire him to not just learn information to check a box but to explore topics that he finds interesting in more depth on his own.”

Julien echoes this sentiment and shares his appreciation for the program. “I absolutely love this school—it’s a breath of fresh air,” he says. “I really appreciate the flexibility it offers, allowing me to work at my own pace and manage my schedule in a way that best supports my goals.”

This flexibility has allowed Julien to develop a structured daily routine that supports both his academic and professional endeavors. “My daily routine is pretty structured. I wake up around 7 a.m., take care of my chores and have breakfast. I follow a daily checklist and typically complete an entire week’s worth of work for one subject in a single day. I usually finish school around 2 p.m., though it depends on the subject. After that, I either study at ground school or visit the Civil Air Patrol website to take my tests and work toward ranking up.”

Beyond the academics, Julien has also found inspiration in his teachers. “I really appreciate how engaging and enjoyable the lessons are, and the teachers are fantastic! My favorite class right now is Honors English with Mrs. O’Brien. She’s such a cool teacher, and I always look forward to our conversations.”

A model that empowers students

What makes Global Academy at ASU Prep stand out is its ability to meet the needs of each student, empowering them to pursue their academic and personal goals at the same time.

Julien’s story proves how this model can transform a student’s trajectory. By combining a supportive environment with engaging coursework, the program has given him the space to thrive—both in school and in the skies above.

If you’re curious about how this innovative model can help your student reach their educational and personal goals, we’d love to connect. Schedule a call today and learn how we’re redefining education and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Global Academy at ASU Prep is thrilled to announce that senior Eli Osuna has committed to the University of Michigan on a full athletic scholarship. This milestone reflects Eli’s dedication to both his academic and athletic pursuits, and the supportive role ASU Prep has played in his journey.

Athletic excellence

Eli’s gymnastics journey began at age three in North Carolina with recreational “mommy & me” classes. His passion for gymnastics grew, eventually leading to more intensive and competitive training when the family settled in New York due to his father’s military career. 

Now a senior elite gymnast living in Virginia, Eli’s path is marked by relentless commitment and impressive achievements. His favorite events are floor and pommel, where he showcases his exceptional skills and artistry. His rigorous schedule includes nearly 30 hours of practice each week and extensive travel for competitions across the United States. These experiences have not only honed his skills but also his adaptability and resilience.  

“I think it’s helped me be able to adjust to new places more quickly and not feel like I’m super out of place in every new place I go,” shares Eli. Looking ahead, Eli aspires to earn NCAA individual and team titles at the University of Michigan. Beyond college, he dreams of joining the U.S. national team, competing on a world team and perhaps even securing a spot on an Olympic team.

Academic excellence

Eli has thrived amidst a rigorous schedule, thanks to ASU Prep’s diverse offerings. Transitioning from ASU Prep Digital to Global Academy—ASU Prep’s online school offering virtual learning to students everywhere—Eli found an ideal fit for balancing his demanding gymnastics commitments with his academic pursuits. 

The flexible model not only accommodated his schedule but also provided the opportunity to take Universal Learner Courses, enabling him to earn significant college credits while still in high school.

Through ASU’s Universal Learner Courses (ULCs), Eli is set to graduate with an estimated 28.50 college credits, gaining valuable college experience at a fraction of the typical cost. 

“The flexibility of Global Academy at ASU Prep and my US Government course allows Eli to focus on both his personal and academic goals,” shares Christina Moreno, Eli’s US Government teacher. 

Melissa Woodward, ASU Prep Learning Specialist, notes, “Eli has utilized Universal Learner courses that will allow him to be successfully prepared for college level curriculum at The University of Michigan.”

Reflecting on his academic interests, Eli has declared a major in Computer Science, inspired by a ULC programming course that resonated with his love for math. 

His teachers have been impressed. Lela Chavers, Eli’s Economics teacher, commends his discipline and time-management skills, saying, “Eli demonstrates an impressive commitment to both his academic and athletic pursuits. He consistently produces high-quality work and stays on pace with his assignments. It’s inspiring to see how he balances his rigorous gymnastics training with his studies, all while preparing for college. I am so proud of his accomplishments and future plans.”

Amanda Miller, Eli’s Calculus teacher, adds, “Eli is excelling, consistently demonstrating a quick understanding of complex topics and a meticulous attention to detail. He has remarkable work ethic and dedication. It’s no surprise that his drive and commitment also led to a gymnastics scholarship offer.”

Eli’s journey underscores the impact of a personalized education, where students can pursue their passions without compromising academic excellence. 

He reflects on the benefits of ASU Prep’s flexible schedule: “I can work ahead if I have a big competition where I couldn’t do school, or I could catch up a week later and not have any downsides or consequences.”

Embarking on a new chapter

As Eli prepares to join the University of Michigan’s gymnastics team, he looks forward to new challenges and opportunities, confident in the foundation built at ASU Prep. 

We congratulate Eli on his achievements and wish him continued success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter at the University of Michigan.