The people at Thayer are what make it such a special place. I’ve never seen so many driven, compassionate, and genuine people at one institution, which is why Thayer is one of a kind. I couldn’t have made it to where I am today without the help of my incredible classmates or the endless support from the faculty and staff.

I plan to study physics and computer science at Wesleyan University while also playing varsity soccer there. My experiences in my physics class with Mr. Smith and my Data Structures class with Mr. Cedrone have had a significant impact on me. Those courses not only developed my curiosity for the subjects but also gave me the skills and confidence to know I’m capable of achieving remarkable things.

I’d say AP Computer Science was one of the hardest classes I took at Thayer. I started with far less knowledge of the subject than my peers, so my goal of performing well in an advanced class was a tall task. However, with the help and guidance of Mr. Cedrone, I was able to stick with the class and ultimately achieve my goal without sacrificing any of my athletic commitments or my extracurricular activities.

I drive almost an hour and 15 minutes to school every day with my sister.

While academic success and quantitative excellence are the standard at Thayer, what I think is invaluable are the interpersonal skills taught. We talk every day in Mr. Cedrone’s Data Structures class about how a student or employee is only as good as their ability to communicate what they know — and he couldn’t be more correct. I’m very grateful and know these skills will set me apart not only in college or the workplace but in life generally.

Pirates of the Caribbean.

When I think of “going that extra mile,” I instantly think of Ms. Farnham and her dedication to my success in BC Calculus. It was evident, and I can attest, that I was having a hard time understanding the material and keeping up with the pace of the class. When I considered switching out of the class early in the year, she advised against it and offered her time before and after school to go over the coursework. Having a teacher who believes in me that much is something I’m incredibly grateful for. It shows just how invested the Thayer faculty are to student success.

I really valued the college counseling office because of their experience and knowledge of the application process. They knew every student’s application was different and were just as committed to my classmates' processes as they were to mine. Whether it was connecting me with Bobbi (Athletic Director Bobbi Moran) for recruiting questions, sitting down during the school day to go over my list of schools, or finding time to meet with me and my English teacher about an essay, their support never wavered.

My family is my main inspiration. My parents are incredibly dedicated, and I wouldn’t have any of the opportunities I have today without their support. I’m also inspired by my sister, who is one of the most hardworking people I know. They all shape who I am, and I don’t thank them enough for the sacrifices they’ve made or the commitment they’ve shown me.

One of my favorite memories was competing in the General Thayer competition my senior year. It was a giant project filled with stress, planning, and tight deadlines, but that’s what made it so special. Getting the opportunity to perform an embarrassing dance on stage, learning a new talent in about a week, and bringing a Thayer tradition back from a global pandemic is something not everyone can say they did, which is why I’ll always remember it.

“Knee Deep (feat. Jimmy Buffett)” by the Zac Brown Band.

My friends and classmates have always been there for me whenever I needed them. Not only have they helped me when I most needed it, but they’ve also pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. The teachers and coaches in my life have had an immeasurable impact on my life and, in most cases, my future. The time and effort they’ve invested in me is something I will always be grateful for. Whether staying late to make sure I understood a topic or getting to practice early to talk about my recruiting process, I wouldn’t have gotten to where I am today without every one of them.

Winter Wars. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life, and it’s most certainly one of the most exciting, anticipated events every year. You’ll never find another institution as excited to go to school during the gloomy days of winter as students at Thayer Academy. The feeling of every one of your classmates cheering during a tug-of-war is truly an indescribable feeling that I wish everyone could experience.