Balancing Stardom and Academics: How Grand Canyon Private Academy Empowers Hannah W.

At just 16 years old, Hannah W. is already making a name for herself in the worlds of acting and modeling. A junior at Grand Canyon Private Academy (GCPA), she has struck a balance between pursuing her passion and excelling academically. GCPA’s online, seminar-based learning model allows Hannah to travel for auditions, film projects and modeling opportunities—all while keeping up with her studies.

Finding the Right Fit with GCPA

Hannah’s journey with online education began at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. As she navigated different schools, she discovered GCPA and was offered an opportunity to enroll through Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship. This scholarship not only provides tuition assistance for her education but supports her acting and piano lessons, helping her develop skills essential to her career.

“GCPA allows me to travel and still be in school,” Hannah shares. “If I’m filming in L.A., I can take my computer with me, sign on and complete my work. If I can’t attend a live class, I can watch the recording later and stay on track.”

This level of flexibility has been a game-changer for Hannah, ensuring she never has to choose between education and her career aspirations.

A Rising Star in Film and Music

Hannah’s acting career is already filled with exciting milestones. Recently, she starred in a short film as part of the “52 in 52” project, where filmmakers create 52 ten-minute films in a year. Not only was she the lead in the production, but she also got to showcase another one of her passions—horseback riding.

“I’m a horse girl, so getting to ride a horse while acting was amazing,” she says. Her love for acting doesn’t stop there. She is currently working on a feature film that has been in production since last March. Many of her projects align with her interests in Western films, further blending her hobbies with her professional goals.

Beyond acting, Hannah is also a skilled pianist. Having taken lessons for seven years, she finds that her musical training helps her memorize lines for acting. In fact, she’s often been asked to play the piano in her film roles, making this talent an unexpected yet invaluable asset to her career.

The Power of Seminar-Based Learning

Unlike traditional online schooling, GCPA offers seminar-based learning, a unique approach that fosters engagement, leadership and collaboration. Most of Hannah’s classes follow this model, giving her the opportunity to interact with teachers and peers in real time.

“You can raise your hand, ask questions, and interact with classmates. But if I miss a session, I can watch the recording and catch up, without falling behind or worrying about unexcused absences,” explains Hannah.

For excelling students like Hannah who have demanding schedules, this format provides the perfect balance of structure and flexibility.

A Leader Beyond the Classroom

Hannah isn’t just excelling in academics and entertainment—she’s also developing leadership skills through GCPA. Recently, she participated in an information session to share her experiences with prospective students. Engaging in interviews and public speaking opportunities has helped her build confidence and communication skills that will benefit her career and personal growth.

“I’ve become more outgoing and comfortable in leadership roles,” she says. “GCPA gives me the freedom to make my own choices while still having support from teachers and staff.”

A Bright Future Ahead

As the youngest of seven siblings, Hannah’s journey is already shaping up to be extraordinary. Whether she’s acting, playing the piano or contributing to her family’s tradition of rescuing and rehabilitating racehorses, she continues to embrace every opportunity that comes her way.

To aspiring students considering virtual education, Hannah offers this advice: “It’s different, but it’s the same. You still have classes, quizzes and assignments, but with more flexibility. If you have a busy schedule or love to travel, it’s a great option.”

Hannah’s story is a testament to how Grand Canyon Private Academy empowers students to chase their dreams while receiving a quality education. As she continues to shine in the entertainment industry, there’s no doubt that her future is as bright as the spotlight she
steps into.