Our next graduate spotlight from O’Fallon Township High School is Audra Johnson.

This fall, Audra will be attending the University of Illinois, where she is still exploring her future major.

One of Audra’s standout memories from the year was our very first Meet & Greet. Like many students, she walked into that event not knowing exactly what to expect, but it ended up becoming a turning point for her.

“The first Meet & Greet event has always stood out to me. I’d never had the experience of mingling and talking to people like that before, and it changed the way I approach conversations.”

As the year progressed, Audra saw tremendous growth in her confidence and public speaking.

“Before CEO, I lacked the confidence to walk up and talk to someone or speak in front of a group. However, CEO taught me to be better at both of those things. I’m not perfect by any means, but I’ve come a long way from the beginning of the year.”

Another lesson Audra will carry with her is the importance of adapting when things do not go according to plan.

“Pivoting was a big thing I came to learn, especially through our class business. In school, we’re taught there is one right answer, but business isn’t like that. You need to learn how to pivot when something isn’t working, and CEO taught me that.”

Perhaps my favorite reflection from Audra was this simple realization:

“I can do hard things as long as I have enough strength to get up in the morning. There were big events in CEO had me stressed, but every single day I still got out of bed. I took each day one hour at a time, and now I’m here at the end of this class.”

Audra, it has been rewarding to watch your confidence grow throughout the year. Congratulations on all you have accomplished, and we wish you the very best as you begin this next chapter at the University of Illinois.