I’d bet that most people who answer this question would say “the community,” and there’s a valid reason for that. Thayer itself is a collection of dazzling buildings and expansive sports fields — impressive, but not “unique.” Instead, the people within these buildings and on these fields distinguish Thayer. They are what I think of when I think of Thayer Academy. 

I will attend the University of Chicago where I plan to study economics and data science.

I will pick two teachers for different reasons. Mr. Forrest in both PreCalc Honors and Multivariable Calculus challenged me as a student in the rigor that he expected from me and my classmates. He pushes his students to develop foundational skills in math. Ms. Hayman, on the other hand, challenged me intellectually. She provided me with the environment and necessary pushback to mature as both a thinker and writer.

I’m half-Polish and half-Mauritian. It’s an odd combination, but one that I’m proud of.

Thayer holds me accountable not only as a student but as a person. Teachers like Mr. Cedrone, Mr. Donovan, and Ms. Harper are proud of who their students are along with what they accomplish. Thayer’s community has taught me that while intelligence is revered, someone’s true worth lies in their ability to communicate, empathize, and show kindness.

The ranges of tones and genres covered in Forrest Gump make it easily rewatchable for me.

Ms. Woods, my college counselor, was both supportive of me and honest with me. She helped me to pick a range of schools which supported my interests while taking into account who I am. That extra level of personalization offered by College Counseling was impressive, but it wasn’t surprising given their reputation.

People who commit themselves to a discipline that they’re passionate about inspire me to chase my own ambitions. It’s a joy to hear them “geek out” about the minutiae that they’ve dedicated so much time to.

If you literally took every extra mile that a teacher has gone for me, you could easily make it to China and back. Mr. Forrest probably accounts for half of those miles. During my sophomore year in his PreCalc Honors class, I would walk into his office one to three times per week as early as 7:15 a.m. to ask him questions about the homework, the material, life, etc. He would always answer my questions with clarity and enthusiasm. I still often poke my head into his office to ask him a random math question every now and then. Mr. Forrest embodies the willingness of Thayer teachers to support their students’ drive and curiosity.

The Windows XP start-up sound.

I like the chicken patties, and it’s always a good day when they have Gummy Bears.

Though my answer would probably change each time you ask me this question, the open mics were unforgettable. It was amazing to witness the unabashed talent, passion, and courage of Thayer’s community on full display.