Be Remarkable: Meet Reven Harris-Fulghum
I’ve really enjoyed growing as a leader at Salem Academy.
“I decided to come to Salem because I’ve always been surrounded by strong female role models, and I wanted to prioritize my academic education in high school,” senior day-student Reven Harris-Fulghum said of her decision to attend Salem Academy four years ago.
Looking back, Reven is grateful for how much she’s grown at Salem–academically, socially, and as a leader. After her sophomore year, she attended a summer program at the University of Cambridge, an opportunity made possible by her academic advisor, Michelle Lawrence, who, Reven said, “encouraged me to apply because she knew about my interests in biotechnology and genetics. It was truly one of the most transformative educational experiences I’ve had, which is completely due to Ms. Lawrence pushing me and helping with my recommendation letters and application. I have a huge amount of gratitude to her, because it really changed my life.”
Traveling to England for the University of Cambridge’s summer intensive program in biotechnology and genetics is just one example of the growth Reven said she has experienced: “The area I’ve grown the most in is courage. Coming out of my shell has been a bit of a challenge, but because of how Salem encourages their girls, I have absolutely done so.”
I absolutely encourage any young girl who is looking for an environment that will push her and put her in the best position possible for moving forward to come to Salem.
Extracurricular involvement has also shaped Reven’s Salem experience in meaningful ways. She’s an active member of Student Council and president of the Honor Cabinet this year, where she and her fellow members “try to be good role models for the student community and model what Salem Academy’s honor code looks like in practice.” For the past four years, she’s been on the tennis team, serving as captain this year, and has also been involved in theater and the Key Club. Through her involvement with Key Club–in which she served as president her junior year–Reven has volunteered with numerous organizations, including Atrium Health, Samaritan’s Purse, and a shelter for women and children. Of those experiences with the Key Club, she said, “Volunteering has taught me to prioritize my community, and I’ve really enjoyed giving back. It’s become more than just a club requirement; it’s become part of who I am.” And as part of her senior capstone project, Reven has been exploring her love of aviation by working toward earning a private pilot’s license!
I don’t think freshman-year me would even recognize me now. I’ve flown a plane, led assemblies, and stepped into a leadership role as honor cabinet president. I’ve pushed myself out of my comfort zone on so many occasions.
Despite her many accomplishments, Reven is most proud of the life-long friendships she’s built at Salem Academy, and said, “I’m surrounded by an incredible group of friends, and we all support each other and lift each other up. These girls truly are my sisters, and Salem truly is like a home.”