Send us a text

In our latest Hootworthy interview, we chatted with Abby, a 2023 GCA graduate who found great success through GCA's work-based learning program at Zaxby’s. Abby’s journey began in 10th grade when she started working at Zaxby’s and later joined the Work-Based Learning Program thanks to a teacher’s suggestion. This program allowed her to balance work and school effectively, earning credit hours while gaining valuable on-the-job experience.

Abby set her sights on becoming an assistant manager and achieved that goal shortly after graduation. She chose Zaxby’s because she loved the brand, and the Work-Based Learning Program helped her grow as a worker while still attending school. Now, as an assistant manager, she’s responsible for leading a team of 8-10 people per shift, handling various challenges, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Her days are dynamic, with each day bringing new tasks and situations.

Balancing work and college, Abby works 35-45 hours a week, a feat she manages thanks to the skills she developed during high school. Reflecting on her high school experience, where she worked around 20 hours a week, Abby credits the Work-Based Learning Program with preparing her for her current schedule. She believes communication is key to leadership and stays open to dialogue with her team, leaders, and customers.

One of Abby’s most memorable moments was meeting Zack, the founder of Zaxby’s, who visited her store and had a meal. She advises students in work-based learning to go out and find a job, learn new skills, and enjoy the experience. For those who already have a job, she points out the benefits of earning credits while gaining work experience.

Looking ahead, Abby hopes to graduate from college and continue her career at Zaxby’s, potentially staying in the store. She gave a heartfelt shoutout to her school, the teacher who introduced her to the work-based learning program, and her company and boss for their support and guidance. Abby’s story is a great example of how work-based learning can lead to success and personal growth. Stay hootworthy, Abby

Send us a text

In our latest Hootworthy interview, GCA students Jack, Michael, Gabe, and Joey shared their exciting journey of becoming published authors. From adventurous frogs and missing brothers to a popcorn-obsessed boy and a fox finding its way home, their creative stories and unique challenges offer a glimpse into their imaginative worlds. Balancing school and writing, these young authors have shown that with drive and support, anything is possible.

Send us a text

In our latest Hootworthy interview, we caught up with Luke, a 10th grader at GCA, who’s making waves in the gymnastics world. Luke is not just any gymnast; he competes in Trampoline, Double-Mini, and Tumbling at the Junior Elite level. With only three other athletes in the U.S. achieving this level across all three events, Luke’s accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. You can check out Luke’s bio here.

One of Luke’s standout achievements is being crowned the 2023 Tumbling National Champion at the USA Gymnastics Championships. He also earned a spot on the 2024 U.S. Junior National Tumbling Team, and he’s currently ranked 4th in the world in Tumbling for his age group—an impressive feat he secured at the World Age Group Championships in Birmingham, UK. Despite his rigorous training schedule, which includes three-hour daily practices and intense speed programs, Luke manages to balance his academics thanks to the flexibility GCA offers. He often squeezes in schoolwork during lunch breaks and appreciates how understanding his teachers are about his schedule.

Luke’s journey into gymnastics began when his mom signed him up for a parkour class to help him manage his OCD. A gym coach spotted his potential, and the rest is history. Even with a few stumbles—like the time he fractured his ankle at the gym—Luke has remained committed to mastering gymnastics. Making the national team was his most memorable moment, but he admits to often tripping right after nailing a solid routine.

Looking ahead, Luke has his sights set on competing in the Olympics for Trampoline and the World Games for Tumbling. He advises aspiring gymnasts to expect to fall a lot, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Learn from the falls, get back up, and keep going. With his achievements and the support from GCA, Luke’s story is a testament to what commitment and tenacity can achieve. Stay Hootworthy, Luke!