For Alex Byers, Salem is a way of life. From growing up in Winston-Salem to attending both Salem Academy and College, Salem’s impact on Byers’s life is one she’ll always remember. Since 2016, she has embarked on an incredible journey at Salem that’s taught her to think critically, be a fearless leader, and build lasting friendships that will endure the test of time. 

With encouragement from her parents, Byers decided to attend Salem Academy as a freshman in 2016 and believes it’s one of the best decisions of her life.

“I still remember the student that gave me a tour of the Academy. Everyone was so friendly, and the campus was so pretty,” Byers said.

“I joined a mock class for Latin and English. I loved that the class size felt small, and I immediately knew that I would not be talked over in class if I went to Salem. I also knew that I would really need to pay attention to what I was learning there. I found this both scary and exciting,” Byers recalled.

Choosing Salem Academy for Byers’s high school experience has etched many positive memories in her heart. For starters, Salem Academy graduates only know about the magical traditions that build bonds forever. 

“I love the traditions at Salem Academy. Saber Sorting, that was so much fun. There’s also the ring banquet that freshman organized for seniors, and we also raised money through the junior car wash to plan the prom,” Byers said.

When you ask Byers what’s her favorite memory about her experience at the Academy, she instantly remembers some of the best times were just simply spending time with her friends in the dorm. 

“Hanging out with my friends in the dorm was absolutely the best vibe, but the ring I wear is unforgettable. The ring is everything at Salem Academy, and I am proud to wear it,” Byers gleamed.

For Byers, academics also played an important role in her high school experience at Salem Academy. The Academy’s distinctive STEAM curriculum sent Byers on a trip around the world leading her to study the arts in Hong Kong through a program with the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she also able to use her Mandarin skills, and to explore visual and performing arts in amazing places like Washington, D.C.

In addition to unforgettable nights with friends and superb academic explorations, Byers’s fondest memory is when Salem Academy asked her to share an alumnae message for Opening Chapel. Opening Chapel is a longstanding fall tradition at the start of the school year where the Dean of Students reads messages and good wishes from alumnae. 

After Salem Academy, Byers made another life-changing decision to attend Salem College and pursue big dreams at a small college.

“After touring other colleges, I made the ultimate decision to attend Salem College because I knew I would have more opportunities to grow and thrive at Salem than I would at bigger school,” Byers said.

“I am so glad I chose Salem instead,” she added.

Thriving at Salem College, Byers’s distinctive experience has given her tremendous opportunities to discover leadership and find her own remarkable Salem story as a college student. 

During her time at Salem College, she’s started Salem’s pre-law society, served as the Honor Council Chair, and co-chaired Fall Fest, the College’s most cherished fall tradition. From her perspective, she doesn’t believe she would have participated in as many important leadership roles in a larger campus environment. 

In May of 2024, Byers graduates from Salem College and while both nervous and excited, she’s found her passion in life as she applies for law school. At Salem College, Byers discovered her future. 

“I came to Salem College and figured out really quickly what I wanted do. I want to be a lawyer, I want to go to law school,” Byers said. 

As Byers prepares to become a Salem alum, her advice to other students is to get involved and to find ways to push themselves out of their comfort zones. Because Byers found her confidence at Salem, her experience at both Salem Academy and College has led to a bright future with big dreams ahead. She’s developed special friendships who will be her future bridesmaids and friends who will always share a sacred bond no matter where they are in the world.