January 2025 Student Spotlight: Bailey Pattison
This month, Stroll Lake Oconee has been pleased to highlight local superstar Bailey Pattison. Bailey is a Junior at Lake Oconee Academy who’s called Reynolds home for nearly fifteen years. She lives with her parents, Mrs. Vickie and Mr. Scott Pattison, and has an older sister, Sydney, who is a freshman at Georgia Tech.
As a high honors student, Bailey tackles her studies with admirable vigor. Though she gives all subjects her fullest efforts, her favorite course is AP US History. “I really enjoy learning about our country and its past”, she notes. “But Mrs. Mandy Lipscomb, my AP US History teacher, is the reason why the class is my favorite”. What sets Bailey apart from her peers, though, is how she seizes opportunities to be uplifting to those around her. This is reflected in the two LOA Cornerstone Award pens that she’s collected. She’s been awarded one for community and one for citizenship – both of which recognize her respect, kindness, and ability to see good in those around her.
Shifting focus from the classroom to the court, it becomes clear that Bailey’s teamwork skills complement her volleyball talent perfectly. Bailey is a co-captain on LOA’s varsity volleyball team and plays for a national travel volleyball team in Social Circle. She’s been the MVP of her varsity team for two years, and she and her team ranked first all-region twice. “I’m in the process of pursuing my aspirations to play volleyball in college”, she adds. “It’s my biggest motivation for the future, and I would also like to coach at some point.”
Of course, choosing a career path is something of a journey, and Bailey’s been able to explore options adjunct to volleyball, too. When injuries led her to a year of physical therapy, Bailey saw a spark in her passion for the subject area. “I was inspired to focus my future on becoming a physical therapist because of Clayton and Bob, my physical therapists”, she recalls. “I’d like to major in biology and pursue physical therapy as a career.” Bailey also details how crucial a role her parents have played in guiding her through her aspirations and interests. “They’ve been incredibly supportive in all my endeavors and I’m grateful for their love and support”, she says.
In the meantime, Bailey lives a healthy lifestyle, taking enough time away from the stress of studies and sports to enjoy her favorite pastimes. Alongside volleyball, Bailey loves playing pickleball, relaxing on the lake, and baking. She works at Esse in Reynolds, babysits, and dog sits for several families around the lake. “There’s a lot of activities to enjoy here in the neighborhoods”, she says. “Reynolds is safe and welcoming, and I’ve met some friends here that I hope will be lifelong friends.”
Altogether, it’s clear to see that Bailey exudes brilliance and personality in all her endeavors. She’s stunningly capable, talented, and authentic in every space she occupies – a quality just as rare as it is valuable. Bailey Pattison is a distinguished student, athlete, and young woman, with a determined spirit and compassionate attitude that anyone can aspire to.
