College Profile: Gracen Wiggins '19 headed to Washington and Lee University
This fall, Rabun Gap senior Gracen Wiggins will make her way to Washington and Lee University, a liberal arts college in Lexington, VA.
This story is part of a series of college profiles featuring students from Rabun Gap’s Class of 2019.
“I chose Washington and Lee University because the sense of community resembled that of Rabun Gap,” said Gracen. “The professors and alumni offer special, practical undergraduate attention and opportunities that will help prepare me for my future. Additionally, the financial aid program at Washington and Lee is very helpful.”
Gracen came to Rabun Gap in her junior year and was not only new to the school, she was also new to the area. Her academics were so excellent that a local public school advised that she attend Rabun Gap because she would find it more challenging. Gracen soon established a reputation for being kind, humble, and intelligent. She impressed her teachers with her dedication to her studies and gained friends quickly with her warm nature. She joined the Christian Student Initiative (CSI) and took on a leadership position in the group. After only one year here, Gracen soon became a leader among her peers.
Gracen has proven herself to be a dedicated and hardworking student and will undoubtedly continue to bring these qualities into her college career. As far as what she wants to study while in school or what her career aspirations are, she is hopeful but unsure. She has a broad range of interests and passions in the realm of humanities, specifically in politics, culture, religion, and global leadership. Some careers she is considering at this point are ophthalmology, ministry, and government work.
“I have no idea what exactly I’m going to study or do in the future, but I believe Washington and Lee is a wonderful place to discover that,” shared Gracen. “I am most excited to take courses I find especially interesting over a vast range of topics.”
Gracen has thrived during her time at Rabun Gap and has grown not only as a student but also as a person. She feels ready to take on any challenges and new experiences that college life might bring, and while she is excited about what the future holds, leaving Rabun Gap feels bittersweet.
“Rabun Gap has prepared me by giving me a sense of freedom and responsibility while fostering critical thinking skills both in and outside the classroom. It has also helped me to expand my horizons by trying new things and considering new possibilities,” said Gracen. “I will miss walking across campus while taking in the beautiful mountain views and being greeted by friends. I will miss the people, the campus, the learning environment, the sports teams, and art performances. I will miss who I am in this place. I will miss it all.”
Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School
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Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is a private, coeducational day and boarding school for grades Pre-K through 12. Centrally located between Atlanta, GA, Greenville, SC, and Asheville, NC, we prepare young people for college, career, and a lifetime of leadership and service.
