Twin sisters Anna and Lauren Doggett have done many of the same things. They are K-8 graduates of The Franciscan School, they both attended Cardinal Gibbons High School, and they are both sophomores at N.C. State University. 

And while they share many of the same interests, their futures will likely look quite different. Anna is on the pre-med track majoring in Human Biology and will head to graduate school to become a Physician Assistant. Lauren is pursuing a degree in Elementary Education with a Special Education Certification and a minor in Psychology. She desires to continue her passion of working with kids and hopes to be an elementary school teacher. 

Both Anna and Lauren credit The Franciscan School for playing a pivotal part in their development. “TFS is largely responsible for inspiring my love of learning,” shares Lauren. “And  without TFS, I never would've met some really incredible people. I'm beyond grateful for the long-lasting friendships TFS has brought me.” Anna adds, “The biggest takeaway from TFS was the friendships I made. I always felt like TFS expanded beyond just the school because it seemed that everywhere I went, there were always people from TFS.”

Having developed a spirit of service from TFS as one of its key pillars, both Anna and Lauren currently volunteer with College Mentors for Kids. The organization connects at-risk kids to college students through weekly on-campus activities that inspire growth, confidence, and brighter futures. Lauren shares, “The kids in the program are typically kids who could use a little bit of extra love, guidance, and attention. Being able to mentor my little buddy was such a special experience for me.” Anna also volunteers with N.C. State students to organize the local “Krispy Kreme Challenge '' race.

Gymnastics has long been a love for Anna and Lauren. They both participate on N.C. State’s Club Gymnastics team, and this year Lauren will serve as the club’s treasurer. “I’ve always been involved with gymnastics in some way, whether actively competing or coaching, so being able to continue that in college has been so much fun,” shares Lauren. Both Anna and Lauren are also working as gymnastic coaches.

Many teachers made an impact on the sisters, giving them a glimpse of what their career paths could look like. For Anna, she recalls most Mrs. Giannini, Mrs. Thieken, and Mrs. Moser. “I remember how kind Mrs. Giannini was every day, and how she made me love attending school. Mrs. Thieken remains one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. And Mrs. Moser is the teacher who gave me my love for science- she is honestly part of the reason I am on the path I am on today.”

For Lauren, her fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Belna, stood out the most. “She was such a kind, caring teacher, making me feel valued. My time in her classroom is what made me realize how truly impactful a good teacher can be.” 

Having attended TFS for nine years, Anna and Lauren are filled with memories of favorite moments. The 8th grade Washington, D.C. trip stands out the most for them both, getting to go and explore all the monuments with their friends by their side. “It was the first time we’d ever taken a trip without our parents,” shares Lauren. “I was grateful to be able to spend that time with them before we graduated.” Her second most memorable time was the 5th grade Christmas party, watching the Christmas Carol with her friends and sipping hot chocolate after they had read the book. 

As Anna and Lauren look back on their time at TFS and forward to their future, they leave some parting wisdom for current students:

Anna: “Enjoy your time at TFS because there's not going to be a time where you get to constantly see everyone you grew up with again, and to value the friendships you make at TFS because those can long outlive your time there. Outside of school advice, I would say to surround yourself with people who truly care about you because those will be the people who push you to succeed.”

Lauren: “Always try and enjoy where you are right now. It's so tempting to look ahead to the future, but it can be so rewarding if you take a moment to pause and enjoy the version of yourself that exists in the present.”