For a quarter of a century, PA Cyber alums have been making an impact in Pennsylvania and beyond. Graduates from every county in the commonwealth have chosen this cyber school as a foundation for their lifelong plans. We’ve had students like pop star Sabrina Carpenter, “Dance Moms” alum Nia Sioux, and country singer Gabby Barrett. As the most experienced public cyber charter school in Pennsylvania, PA Cyber continues to provide a new school experience to students looking for a better educational fit.
Here’s how some of our alums are making a difference in Pennsylvania.
Uplifting County Amid Population Decline
Christina Bingman ‘11 dedicates herself to building a brighter future for her family of five and her rural community. As a volunteer, she strives to prevent population decline throughout Warren County in northwestern Pennsylvania. She advocates for improved transportation and more accessible cellular and internet services. She collaborates with local businesses and organizations because “bringing people together is the first step to getting things done.”
Growing up, Christina changed schools often and experienced social anxiety. Her life took a positive turn when she enrolled at PA Cyber, which she credits with “completely changing” her. She was relieved to graduate on time. “PA Cyber set me up with a good foundation of believing in myself,” she said.
Christina is on track to complete her bachelor’s in environmental science this fall. She plans to become an environmental technician in the oil and gas industry to protect the health and safety of folks in her county.
Aspiring to Create Policy Change
An incoming senior at Robert Morris University (RMU), Zayn Farooq ‘22 is studying political science and history. After earning his degree, he plans to attend law school and make an impact by working in public interest law. “I recognize the deep structural issues we face in housing, civil rights, and educational law and policy,” he said.
Zayn recently completed an internship with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, where he researched nationwide policy and legislation related to services for people at risk of experiencing homelessness. One of the most meaningful experiences of his college career so far was having his article on disparities in public education funding published in an academic journal.
Zayn was always a top-notch student. He enrolled in PA Cyber in sixth grade because “there weren’t any other viable middle school options in my area,” he said, “and PA Cyber offered a quality education from the comfort of my home.” He did so well that he earned a full scholarship to RMU.
Building a Legacy of Community Service
Sarah Seader ‘21 has always prioritized service to others, from her time at PA Cyber through college and now at work. At PNC Bank, she is a risk management analyst and the community outreach and volunteer chair. She supports PNC’s initiatives with the American Heart Association, United Way, and employee-led groups that foster an inclusive workplace.
Sarah was a highly successful student at PA Cyber, and she only gained more steam in college. She earned two degrees in three years from PennWest California (CalU). Some of her extracurriculars included becoming student association president and editor-in-chief of the student paper. She was chosen as homecoming queen and commencement speaker.
Sarah has returned to PA Cyber’s Pittsburgh office for the past four summers to donate school supplies. “I hope that I can give back to others the way people at PA Cyber have impacted my journey,” she said.
Check out pacyber.org/news for more student stories.
To learn more about PA Cyber, visit pacyber.org or join a live information session at pacyber.org/session.
