Fletcher follows family footsteps to UNC

Mackenzie Fletcher credits her senior project with helping her decide her college major.

The East High School senior has been accepted to the University of North Carolina where she will pursue a degree in elementary education.

"I've always loved the school," Fletcher said of UNC. "My sister is there now, and my family is kind of legacy there."

Fletcher has spent her time at East High School being active. She's served on the Student Government Association, been a part of Key Club and Young Life and has cheered for both the junior varsity and varsity cheerleading squads.

"I look forward to getting involved in new things," she said. "My main goal is to get involved with Young Life or Campus Crusade."

High school, she said, has "flown by."

"I have a cousin who was a freshman this year, and it seemed like that flew by. I don't think you think about how fast it goes when it's your four years," she said.

Fletcher will miss the relationships she has with teachers and staff at East once she's no longer there.

"The way teachers reach out to students here ... it shows that they care about more than just your grades. They care about you," she said.

Fletcher will speak at graduation, which makes her nervous.

"I don't mind public speaking if I can let people know I'm awkward," she laughed. "But I won't be able to look at anyone!"

Fletcher's advice to those who will be entering high school this fall is to take part in all you can.

"Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way," she said. "You never know what revelation you'll come to."

The daughter of Monica and Chris Lee and Rich Fletcher plans to spend this summer as a nanny and with her family at the beach. Following college, she plans to get her masters degree.

East Rutherford High School's graduation is scheduled for Saturday, June 11, at 8 p.m.