Name: Sarah McDonald

Years at Shipley: 14

Attending in the Fall: The College of William and Mary

Major/Area of Interest: English

 

Beacon (Associate Editor); Yearbook (Head Editor); Environmental Committee (President); Golf;

Musical Make-Up Staff

 

My most influential teacher was Ms. Gearhart. I had her in 9th grade and again in 11th grade. As a very nervous freshman, she greatly intimidated me; however, as the year went on, English became my favorite class. Her kind demeanor made me feel welcome every day, and she always made our books engaging. For American Studies, she incorporated works of art, short stories, poetry, and movies into the curriculum to make it a truly interdisciplinary course. A large reason I am becoming an English major and considering teaching is due to Ms. Gearhart.

 

I think Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing means taking the courage to put others before yourself and doing it with grace. It is not easy to serve others when you are also in need of care; however, teamwork and compassion are necessary.

 

…be a leader.

 

Shipley has prepared me greatly to be in charge of others, delegate tasks, and communicate. Being the head of my committee and a yearbook editor taught me great responsibility that will carry over to leadership in college and life. These opportunities gave me practice with things as simple as writing emails.

 

Shipley also prepared me for a rigorous academic experience. Taking classes like biology honors and calculus AB have taught me time management, study skills, and effective learning strategies. As a college-prep school, I am confident I will be prepared for a college workload.

 

Above all - academics, clubs, and athletics aside - school was the place I met my best friends. When reflecting on high school, the thing I will miss most and am most grateful to Shipley for is lifelong friends who never failed to support me for the last four years.