From Virtual Teammates to Real-World Career Paths: Washington Virtual Academies Brothers Josiah and Noah Build Their Futures Together 

For brothers Josiah and Noah, education has never been one-size-fits-all. Growing up, the two were homeschooled until 2019 before enrolling at Washington Virtual Academies (WAVA) just ahead of the pandemic. What followed was a journey shaped by flexibility, strong family ties, and a shared passion that would influence both their personal growth and future paths. 

Josiah is a 2025 graduate now pursuing a degree in nursing, while Noah is a junior preparing for his own next chapter. Though they are at different stages, their experiences at WAVA, especially through esports, have played a defining role in who they are becoming. 

Building Confidence Through Connection 

Both brothers found their footing early through WAVA’s esports program. Noah joined in fifth grade and remained actively involved throughout his freshman year, while Josiah committed to the program throughout high school, eventually stepping into a leadership role as team captain. 

For Josiah, esports became a foundation for communication, responsibility, and leadership. As captain, he organized scrimmages, managed team coordination, and helped guide a high-performing team that secured four wins competing in games like Fortnite and Valorant. 

“Esports is the best social thing I’ve done. I made so many friends, we connected online but also met in person,” Josiah shared. 

Those same skills now carry over into his daily life as a college student pursuing nursing. Whether answering calls, speaking with patients, or navigating fast-paced environments, the communication and accountability he developed through esports continue to serve him. 

Noah, who also served as a team captain during his time in the program, credits esports with helping him build teamwork and collaboration skills that extend far beyond gaming. While he stepped back from the club during his sophomore year to focus on community college courses and other commitments, the connections remained strong. He still regularly plays with Josiah and close friend Foster Peterson, continuing the bond they built through WAVA. 

A Foundation for Future Paths 

While their shared experiences have been similar, their career paths are beginning to take shape in different ways. Josiah’s decision to pursue nursing was inspired by his family’s experience caring for his sisters with disabilities; he found a calling in helping others. He is particularly interested in pediatrics, though his love of the outdoors once had him considering rescue missions as a career path. 

Noah’s journey is still evolving. Originally set on becoming a nurse as well, his experience taking community college classes has opened his eyes to new opportunities. He is now exploring trade careers, including welding and possibly plumbing, as he looks toward graduating in the 2026–27 school year. 

Learning Beyond the Screen 

Outside of academics, both brothers share a strong appreciation for the outdoors. Backpacking, climbing, and travel are regular parts of their lives, offering a balance to their online learning environment. 

In 2024, they spent several weeks in Colorado with their grandparents, exploring areas like Monarch Pass and visiting the Great Sand Dunes on their way to a backpacking trip in New Mexico. More recently, Noah has added BMX riding to his list of interests, continuing to seek out new challenges and experiences.  

A Shared Journey, Individual Futures 

For the brothers, WAVA has provided more than an education. It has offered a space where they could grow academically while pursuing their interests, building meaningful friendships, and preparing for life beyond high school. 

Their story highlights how students can take different paths while still benefiting from the same foundation. Whether stepping into a healthcare career or exploring skilled trades, both Josiah and Noah are moving forward with confidence, shaped by their experiences, their family, and the opportunities they embraced along the way. 

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