Name: Gavin
Currently Attending: Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Years at Shipley:4
Activities & Positions Held: All theater productions, Arts Head, Shipley Sprouts, Shipley Singers

Reflections on Shipley
As I plan to go into the theater industry, I realize I will need to work with all different types of people. Directors I hate, directors I love, cast members I hate, cast members I love. Shipley taught me that no matter what, I am going to have to be 100% respectful and understanding of each person I come into contact with. Going off of this, Shipley taught me that relationships are important and that you never know when an opportunity from someone you respect can come your way. 

Who was your most influential teacher and why?
Dr. Gillin was the most influential teacher for me. Coming to Shipley only one year ago and teaching U.S History, Dr. Gillin taught me many valuable lessons that I will continue to use in my day-to-day life. Before her class I used to completely isolate myself in theater and art. It wasn’t until her history class where she inspired me and brought out my love of history. She even inspired me to create my own independent study on the Rwandan Genocide, which she was my teacher. I learned how to complete diligent work and research with her, and how hard work always pays off. I would like to thank Dr. Gillin for two amazing years of history-filled fun.

What was your most memorable experience at Shipley?
Participating in the musicals and working with incredible faculty and students!

What are your plans for the fall of 2019?
I plan on attending Boston Conservatory at Berklee College of Music for a BFA in Musical Theater.

Are you going to college to nurture a talent that you honed during your time at Shipley?
I am going to college to nurture a talent I have always had, however, with the help of Shipley, I truly found my passion for performing.

What does Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing mean to you?
Always complete your work diligently and with pride.

What impact or contributions do you think you have made at Shipley and in the larger community?
I think I brought attention to the arts in a positive way. I also believe I helped build a strong family within the theater department where students from each grade can feel welcome. By student directing a production for the Theater Fest, I inspired the underclassmen to continue to carry on the traditions of inclusiveness and love.

Complete this sentence: Shipley has prepared me to… make strong connections and learn how to understand and work with people who have different values.