Students at high schools in Virginia Beach focus on memorizing facts and getting A’s on tests, but Salem provides students the opportunity to focus on creativity. That opportunity is what leads students from all over the city to apply to join the Visual and Performing Arts Academy (VPAA). This year 104 freshmen joined the Academy and Natalia Cruz was one of them.

“I chose to apply to the Art Academy because I knew that if I did, I would be able to relate to more people about how I feel and what I’m passionate about,” said Cruz.

Cruz has loved art her entire life. During her eighth grade year at Great Neck Middle School she took the opportunity to apply to the VPAA to see if she could make the cut. She was extremely surprised and ecstatic when she heard the news that she got in.

“I remember coming home on Valentines day [when she got her acceptance letter] and practically sobbing off my Valentine’s Day themed makeup,” said Cruz. 

Enthusiastic about taking her talent to the max, Cruz has greatly appreciated the help of the VPAA. One of Natalia’s best friends, junior Joslyn Moon, was there through the whole experience.

“I’m so proud of her,” said Moon.

Cruz now spends most of her time honing her skills whether it be for fun or for school. This gives her the confidence and strength to break her boundaries and constantly improve.

“I think the way I learn at the Academy will help me excel in future classes, especially in college,” said Cruz.

Cruz is taking classes that deal with the history of the visual and performing arts and is learning many different styles of those arts. For her it was never as simple as settling with one one style.

“She has creativity and she’s just good at art,” said Moon.

Cruz believes “this huge step” in her life will allow her to do whatever she wants in relation to the visual arts. 

“I really enjoy Salem!” said Cruz. “It’s really great to be at such a great school where I’ve made so many new friends.”

Along with the other 104 freshmen in the VPAA, Cruz has chosen a path that will allow her to take her talent to the next level.