Thayer offers a breadth of opportunities not only through academics but through sports and extracurricular activities. STEM kids play varsity sports and introverted freshmen become theater fanatics by the time senior year rolls around. It’s not just that, though. Thayer’s faculty welcomes me with open arms in whatever I do, and because of that, I have developed lasting connections with my teachers.

I will attend the Commonwealth Honors College at the University of Massachusetts Amherst where I’ll study public health and neuroscience.

Mr. Forrest’s Precalculus Honors class definitely challenged me the most. I often found myself slowing down and putting more effort into that class. Mr. Forrest is a great teacher; he teaches with a true zeal for the subject matter, and because of that, he loves to throw in problems that actually require you to remember formulas that you learned months ago just so you never forget. 

I was named the MVP of our Thursday after-lunch basketball pickup games (formally known as “Thursday Ball”).

Thayer taught me to explore my opportunities to whatever level I desire. Whether it be AP classes or varsity sports, I can easily try new things and continue to develop my interests. On top of that, managing a rigorous schedule has prepared me well for my future college journey.

Interstellar. 

Ms. Brennan Hall, my college counselor, was ready to meet with me whenever I wanted to talk about applying to college or writing college essays; she was also there if I just had a couple of questions. Even after I submitted my applications, she helped me to look for scholarships and other opportunities that would help me.

Mr. Gibson, my 7th grade math teacher, inspires me. He is both charismatic and strict; he knows how to be a good role model and a good friend. His genuine character and love of Star Wars brings out the best in me, whether that’s in math class, a Middle School golf practice, or just passing by in the halls. 

Mr. Cedrone constantly goes the extra mile. Beyond teaching, he walks into class with a joke or a funny story ready, so everyone is in a good mood even before class starts. He makes sure to give everyone his full effort, even while teaching multiple other AP classes. He knows when to push people, and he isn’t afraid to call me out, especially when I don’t know the answer. 

“Run This Town” by Jay-Z, Rihanna, and Kanye. 

To be honest I’ll eat anything, but I’m definitely going back for seconds (and maybe thirds) if tacos are up there. 

My favorite Thayer memory was probably our Camp Bournedale trip. It’s the freshman orientation/meet-your-classmates event where we stay at Camp Bournedale for three days. Whether it was playing soccer with varsity players or meeting new friends at the basketball court or at the lake, I enjoyed every part of it — even staying up talking in the middle of the night when you couldn’t sleep because it was too hot.