College/School Attending This Fall: Penn State University

Major/Area of Interest: Biotechnology

Years at Shipley: 4

Harvard Model Congress, Varsity Basketball (Captain Two Years), Varsity Lacrosse, Timothy School Service, Service Committee, Mock Trial, Power of Blue Club.

The most influential teacher I had at Shipley was Mr. Kline. In 11th grade, I decided to move up to Honors English for more of a challenge. I was told it would be difficult and that my grade might drop. However, Mr. Kline was there to support me and made the transition as smooth as possible. His kindness and constant encouragement greatly improved my skills as an English student and writer. I’m inspired by his poise and warmth, and I hope to embody those qualities in the same way.

My favorite class I’ ever took was Pre-Calculus Honors with Dr. Rebholz. I always enjoyed math more than any other subject, and it’s something that comes naturally to me. The curriculum in this class was especially enjoyable, allowing me to do the math I’ve always loved while having an incredible teacher who made the experience even better.

My most memorable experience at Shipley was simply coming to school every day surrounded by my best friends and incredible people. I’m so grateful to have met friends for life, and they’ve made everything I’ve accomplished feel even more meaningful.

To me, Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing means having the courage and motivation to step outside your comfort zone and take risks, and the grace to handle that with poise.

Use my voice and advocate for myself.

Shipley has prepared me to take risks by never laughing in my face when I proposed one. Starting 9th grade with only two honors classes and finishing my senior year with five, I never once felt like I couldn’t handle it; in fact, Shipley encouraged me to take those risks. I felt like I was in an environment where people wanted me to succeed and were excited to see me reach my potential, a place where I could truly test my capabilities and intelligence.

My time at Shipley taught me that things won’t just magically come to you; you have to fight for them yourself. Fight for the A, fight for the extension, fight for the captain position. Since learning this, my experience at Shipley became tremendously meaningful. I learned never to just go through the motions, but to give 110% effort to everything I do, no matter the outcome. I’m so grateful that Shipley allowed me to test this mindset and the independence to truly embrace it.