News
William Gresh ’23
Name: William Gresh
College/University Attending: Loyola University Chicago
Major/Area of Interest: Philosophy/Pre-Law
Years at Shipley: 6
Activities:
Ultimate Frisbee, Lacrosse, Cross Country, Tennis, Basketball, Science Olympiad, Global Village
Who was your most influential teacher and why?
Mr. Legnini. Mr. Legnini was my 6th grade advisor and I came from an elementary school that never really had a grading system like Shipleys. My first parent teacher conference was pivotal for me that year because of Mr. Legnini's reaction to my grades. My highest grade was about an 80 and at the time I seemed okay with that, Mr. Legnini not so much. That little disappointment was exactly what I needed because it motivated me to try my hardest and not take a grade like an 80, as something positive. My standards going into Shipley had to be set and Mr Legnini helped me learn to not settle for average. Mr. Legnini always pushed me even if I thought he was being mean and that he didn't like me at the time, I now look back and I am so grateful for everything he has done. He is also a fantastic and smart teacher who is very nice and funny. He also shares the same birthday as me which is pretty cool too.
What was your favorite class and why?
Steam class with Mr. Sheng. For me, any class that is hands on is an amazing class, and in addition to my energy as a middle schooler, steam class was the best. Mr. Sheng was very down-to-earth and funny, he made every class entertaining. My most memorable time as a Shipley student was in that steam class building a Rube Goldberg machine and dabbing on the beat to a hit song as soon as my machine finished.
What was your most memorable experience at Shipley?
Other than the Rube Goldberg machine building. My most memorable experience was during Mr. Baris's advisory where we used the television in the room to play movies and shows. Advisory time is usually boring but Mr. Baris was so open and understanding that he let us enjoy our time.
What does Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing mean to you?
Courage for the deed; Grace for the doing means to always be willing to do the right thing no matter what. No matter how hard it may seem, if you want to make a change because it seems fit, then have the courage to do so.
Complete this sentence: Shipley has prepared me to…
make a difference
How has Shipley prepared you to be your best self and do your best work?
Ever since I joined in middle school, Shipley laid the ground works of a successful student. I just followed in the steps they offered me and I became the best person I can be. Shipley made it all so easy.
How has Shipley encouraged you to take risks?
Well they encouraged me to take risks by giving me experience with taking risks. I have taken many risks in starting a club, or turning in an assignment. Shipley has made me feel okay with taking risks and sometimes even made me feel successful.
Please write a short reflection on your time at Shipley and what it has meant to you.
Shipley has opened my eyes to so many different people, religions, ideals, and so much more. I wouldn't be who I am if it wasn't for the amazing faculty and the friends that I made through this school.
The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.
