EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ga. () – Six local high school graduates from Effingham and Chatham counties are well on their way to chasing their dreams.

We are stepping into their shoes, learning more about what has brought them to this milestone. Effingham County High School Valedictorian Ella Browher and Gulfstream Youth Apprentice Scholar DaShaun Hardy are testaments to how hard work pays off.

“The hard nights where I was working and studying was just one part of it,” Ella said. “But my teachers that helped me and brought me to where I am today.”

DaShaun agreed, “Going to work and going to school at the same time was really something I didn’t think I would be able to do. I was taking AP classes, doing enrollment classes, honors and doing all of that while going to work as well. I thought it was unachievable.”

South Effingham High School Valedictorian Matthew Ji and National Merit Scholar William Maher remind us that growth is gradual, and each step teaches lessons.

“When I came in freshman year, I was a very shy, very quiet, kind of like a turtle,” Matthew said. “But I’m very, very grateful to my friends and teachers and family who have helped encourage me to try more things to try tennis.”

William told , “Time management is a big one.  If you’re not challenged with having to do a lot of different things, extracurriculars and school activities, you don’t learn how to really manage your time, good study and maintain friendships, relationships, things like that.”

Through it all, South Effingham High School Salutatorian Bowen Liu said it takes a village.

“I would really like to thank my parents,” he said. “My parents were humble,  Chinese immigrants who came over to the us and took the risk of entrepreneurship and they would be they were able to provide me with the resources to pursue my education.”

And Telah Edwards? She is eager to pave the way for those who follow.

“You have to be able to balance social life and your school life,” she said.  “Go with your friends, have a study day, go to Starbucks, just be with your friends. Be surrounded by people that are going to get you to that next level.”

Continue to be a student of your craft, class of 2025!