
Hobbies and interests
Reading
Singing
Baking
Gardening
Fishing
Tennis
Camping
Golf
Cooking
Exercise And Fitness
Movies And Film
Board Games And Puzzles
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Music
Exploring Nature And Being Outside
JROTC
Weightlifting
Shooting
Anatomy
Psychology
Archery
Youth Group
Volunteering
Biking And Cycling
3D Modeling
Anthropology
Biology
True Crime
Forensics
Art
Agriculture
Animals
Archaeology
Architecture
Athletic Training
Badminton
Bible Study
Billiards
Bowling
Candle Making
Canoeing
Ceramics And Pottery
Chemistry
Chess
Church
Cleaning
Coffee
Community Service And Volunteering
Concerts
Crafting
Criminal Justice
Culinary Arts
Diving
Driving
Dungeons And Dragons
Ethics
Farming
Fashion
Finance
Fitness
Food And Eating
Gaming
Hammocking
Hiking And Backpacking
Hunting
Jewelry Making
Journaling
Journalism
Karaoke
Kayaking
Latin
Makeup and Beauty
Marine Biology
Mental Health
Minecraft
Mythology
Nails
Nutrition and Health
Orchestra
Pet Care
Physiology
Pilates
Public Speaking
Research
Rodeo
Roller Skating
Science
Scrapbooking
Self Care
Sewing
Shopping And Thrifting
Spending Time With Friends and Family
Spirituality
Stargazing
STEM
Table Tennis
Trivia
Upcycling and Recycling
Guitar
Reading
Academic
Action
Adult Fiction
Adventure
Anthropology
Biography
Classics
Contemporary
Cookbooks
Drama
Epic
Fantasy
Folk Tales
Gardening
Historical
Horror
Humor
Literary Fiction
Literature
Mystery
Novels
Psychology
Realistic Fiction
Science Fiction
Suspense
Thriller
Tragedy
Westerns
Young Adult
Health
Law
Science
Art
Crafts
How-To
Folklore
I read books multiple times per week
Avery Vandergraff
1x
Finalist
Avery Vandergraff
1x
FinalistBio
I'm currently studying Biological Sciences at NC State University, with minors in Forensic Science and Anthropology. My passion for science is tied closely with my desire to serve others, which is what led me towards a career in forensic science. After earning my bachelors degree, I want to be part of a team that gives victims a voice, uncovers the truth, and helps families find the answers they are waiting for. Forensic science isn't just about the science itself, it's about the opportunity to use knowledge and skills to make a difference.
My commitment to leadership and service began before college. During my high school I was involved in JROTC, where I developed strong leadership and communication skills and had the opportunity to serve as Battalion Commander, lead drills, and mentor my peers. These were some of the most impactful experiences that taught me how to lead with confidence while listening, supporting, and learning from people around me.
I also grew up in a large, blended family of six children where faith is an important part of our lives. Growing up in a religious family taught me the importance of serving others, showing compassion, treating everyone with kindness, and being there for those who need support. Being part of a large family also taught me lessons like patience, responsibility, and adaptability. My faith and family has helped shape the values I try to live by each day, and has given me a strong sense of purpose in how I want to use my education and career.
Education
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
Minors:
- Anthropology
Ashe County High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
Career
Dream career field:
- Law Enforcement
Dream career goals:
Forensic Biologist
Manager
The Vintage Farmhouse2022 – 20253 yearsStudent employee in the Market and Product Research department
SkyLine/SkyBest2025 – Present1 yearPet Sitter
2023 – Present3 yearsCrew Member
McDonalds2020 – 20211 yearCashier and food prep.
Harvest Cafe2016 – 20193 years
Sports
Basketball
2016 – 20171 year
Soccer
2013 – 20174 years
Research
Public Health
Ashe County High School — Assessing the bacteria collected within different mask types to effectively determine which is most effective against Covid-192021 – 2022
Public services
Volunteering
Blue Ridge Brutal — Directing people to the finish line and providing them with cold waters and somewhere to rest after their race, and load equipment.2021 – 2021Volunteering
Ashe County High — Guard the entrances to high school basketball games and make sure people followed the rules2020 – PresentVolunteering
Ashe County High — Ensure VIP members found their designated parking spots and help direct others to open spots2020 – PresentVolunteering
Soccer vs Cancer — Collect money and ensure food tables were stocked2021 – 2021