THE
STORY OF US
CLASS OF 2021
THE
STORY OF US
ST. ANDREW ’S SCHOOL
Class of 2021 Marvi Ali. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 John Alexander Matouk Austin. . . . . . . . . . . 3 Riley Katherine Baker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Luke Aaron Barnes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Eleanor Callery Beams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 William Thomas Bellissimo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Faye Roberta Benjamin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Madeline Lyman Birknes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Christopher Terrell Blake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Nora Brookfield Bocock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Zadoc Hooper Bond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Emily Nicole Boyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sarah Carina Bruno. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Claudina Felicia Buccini Bonetti. . . . . . . . . . 9 Catherine Baxter Butcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Amrit Gail Chapman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Yinuo Chen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Heidrun Elizabeth Cobb. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Nia Iman Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Anne Rivinus Denny. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Ashlie MacKinnon Doucette . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Elizabeth Rhett Edens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Sallie Millis England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Oliver Pierre Firmenich. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 William Mogford Fry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Elizabeth Mabel Hall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Amelia Maria Hammond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Felix Iñaki Hernandez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Piper Lee Jackman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Noah Rao Kates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Cole Thomas Kay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Joseph Anthony Ketzner III . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Matthew Daniel Kijowski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Nicholas Beatty Lampietti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Zadoc Livingston Otis Le Roy. . . . . . . . . . 20 Elizabeth Levengood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Matthew Booth Lilley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Nicholas Martin Lilley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Patrick James Mauboussin. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Mason Bedford McKee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Hayden Oliver Messina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 John Tyler Meyer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Andrew Robert Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Matthew Arnold Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Le Duy Anh Nguyen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Elizabeth Hunt Nielsen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Gino Matteo Palacios. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Andrew Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Yash Patel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Kent Wilkin Peters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Eleri Anwen Phillips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Griffin Elizabeth Pitt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Arush Puri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Edward Hammond Pyle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mary Emmaline Rickert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Gianna Xiomara Rosario. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Owen Elliott Schneider. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Yihan Shen Hans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Zachary Stover Sheppard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Belle Foley Shiffman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Robert Shyroian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Clare Yilan Slinkard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Heleah Zara Soulati. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Kaicheng Sun. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Jackson Ezekiel Swets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Theodore Jenot Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Traevon Fritz Thomas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Eliot David Thomas Hilton. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Jill K. Tora. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Marie Ueda. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Arvin Neel Vanikar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Leila Forbes Warren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Zaia Marie Williams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Miriam Felicity Wilmerding . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Bryer Madelyn Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Caden Thurman Wood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Tyler Ray Wood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Jingxuan Zhuang. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Nina Rose Zimmerman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Robert Stewart Zurbuch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Members of the Class Not Represented in this Book Gwendolyn Lloyd Negley Mellon. . . . . . . . 43
Carter Allen Vincent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 1
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Marvi Ali Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (originally from Hopkinton, Massachusetts) FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: In my junior year, at Parents Weekend, I performed a traditional South Asian dance to a Pakistani folk song called Sammi Meri Waar. It was an incredible opportunity to share an aspect of my culture with the greater SAS community and help diversify our show. Dance has played a significant role in my time at SAS. As I learned how to move my body and feel comfortable taking up space, I gained greater confidence in other settings of SAS as well. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I learned how to be a better student, a better athlete, and a better friend. I have come to understand the true meaning of community. As a result, I’ve gained a better understanding of who I truly am. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: One of my favorite places at SAS would have to be the chapel. Crammed onto the chapel benches, all dressed up, we would learn powerful life-lessons each Wednesday night. And, I’d try my best to carry that through my week and apply the wisdom I had learned in my SAS life. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: 1. Family ¶ 2. Eternal. To me, SAS is so, so much more than a school or a physical location. It is a spirit. It is a mindset. And, it’s a way of living. No matter where we go, we can choose to embody the spirit of SAS in small and big ways. Thus, the spirit and true nature of SAS is eternal. ¶ 3. Home HOMETOWN:
John Alexander Matouk Austin AKA Alex Newport, Rhode Island My favorite team would have to be the boys lacrosse team. The coaches and the players on the team create a great unit that is incredibly fun to be a part of. One particular thing that I've loved about lacrosse at St. Andrew’s is how there is a spectrum of players ranging from people who have played lacrosse most of their life to people who barely even knew what lacrosse was before coming to SAS. The incredible thing that the lacrosse program has been able to do is to take those people who haven’t played before, and turn them into key players on the varsity team by the end of their careers. RECALL IN A DECADE: I think that St. Andrew’s taught me how to really be a friend. It is easy to just sit around and laugh with your buddies, but its another thing to actually be there for them when they need you, and at St. Andrew’s I was able to learn how to really be there for my friends when they need me. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Make the most of your time because it really does fly by.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Sit next to someone you don’t know well, try a new sport, take a new language, join a club. Think of each action as an opportunity to learn, grow, and develop yourself. Work to push yourself out of your comfort zone and explore the unknown. And, in doing so, you may discover a new passion. 3
Riley Katherine Baker Northfield, Illinois become a lot more cognizant of having to seek out interesting people/topics of conversation. There are just so many cool people at SAS who have so many interesting hobbies they never talk about! Because we see each other all the time at school, I think I used to believe that I knew people up to a certain point, but that was rarely the case. Hearing about other people’s passions really inspires me to explore my own and it took me a while to realize that.
Colombo, Sri Lanka AS History: Latin America was one of my favorite classes I took at SAS. I always enjoyed being taught by Profe and I found this class really interesting because it was a completely new topic for me. Profe’s teaching style kept us all really engaged in class and allowed us to learn a lot about Latin American history in a short span of time.
HOMETOWN:
HOMETOWN:
HOW I’VE CHANGED: I’ve
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Definitely the Square Dance. It really helped convince me that first night of freshman year that maybe coming to boarding school wasn’t a total mistake. I still love that the Square Dance is traditionally our first gathering together as a school, and I love getting to bring that energy into the rest of the year. Also, I love seeing everyone get into the rodeo theme—it’s refreshingly bizarre.
Basketball in the Pell driveway. In the spring we used to play on this old, adjustable hoop outside of the dorm. We probably spent a bit too much time playing there, and the games got way more serious than they should have been, but it was so much fun. RECALL IN A DECADE: One of the foundational things that I hope to carry forward in my life after SAS is the work ethic that I was taught here; but the most meaningful and memorable aspect of my SAS experience is the friendships that I have formed in the past four years.
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Mr. Speers taught me (among many other things) to never write a page of writing that doesn’t have any paragraph breaks. That may seem obvious but at the time, I thought that was impossible. I’m a rambler when I write and to my surprise, when I tried it, I found out that I could say everything I needed to on one page or less. He taught me not only how to write concisely, but deliberately. Getting in the habit of choosing words or phrases carefully has changed the way I write forever. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: To do good in whatever I decide to pursue. I have no idea quite what that is yet, but my time at St. Andrew’s has definitely instilled that value in me. Also, I would like to maybe have a house with a garden and a few goats. 4
Luke Aaron Barnes
Make the most of your time at the school because you will definitely miss it when your time is over.
Eleanor Callery Beams AKA Ellie
William Thomas Bellissimo AKA Will
Marion, Massachusetts I would have to say my junior English class, for both my classmates and the coursework. It was one of those groups of people that was small but lighthearted and respectful, and Mr. Porter selected works for us to read that were strange, fascinating, and often confusing. What I remember most from that class was how much fun we had struggling through such difficult novellas and short stories, leaning into the process of dissecting intimidating literature.
Riverside, Connecticut Math 2 was my favorite class at St. Andrew’s. Not just because of the material, but because of Mr. Mastrocola. He was a great teacher and allowed us to learn in an engaging way. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I think the grass docks is the best place at St. Andrew’s. Not only is this a place where many different activities occur, but this is always a place where you can relax and talk with friends. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Inviting, motivating, and safe.
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Playing card games literally all over campus. It always felt like, no matter where we were, someone had a deck of cards on them and a group—sometimes a very large group—was ready to play. These impromptu card games brought random sets of people together and often included hysterical laughter or intense, competitive yelling, and they definitely make up some of my favorite memories from SAS.
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
I think there is sometimes a mentality that we as students need to remember to take breaks from work or stop stressing over classes or grades—a mentality that I in no way disagree with—but I also think that, on the flip side, you should always indulge your curiosity, and utilize the time that we have here to talk to teachers after and outside of class or to continue researching a new interest. A big part of what made some classes so rewarding for me were those conversations, which often resulted in more conversations or long lists of recommendations for books, websites, or podcasts to look into.
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Faye Roberta Benjamin HOMETOWN:
Bronxville, New York
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Camping behind Will Rob’s house has been such a fun part of this year. Even the aspects of it that may seem unappealing— struggling to set up tents, cleaning everything up in the morning, falling asleep to the sound of the pouring rain—are still so fun and have been big bonding experiences. RECALL IN A DECADE: St. Andrew’s helped me understand that being outside is the purest form of fun. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Go outside—you won’t regret it. Get to know at least a few faculty members really well. Bring fun, spirited clothes for Yay Days, the Carol Shout, and Spirit Week. Make a mega bed. Play cards. Make a bucket list. Take advantage of being on sports teams while you have them. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Appreciate this campus, these people, and high school while you can—it goes by fast!
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Madeline Lyman Birknes Yarmouth, Maine Right now, my favorite classes are Biology with Mr. O’Connell, Creative Writing and my Tu-Torrey-al on contemporary short fiction, and Humanities with Ms. Pressman and Mrs. Roach.
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
Mr. Olana and I had a conversation that transformed my attitude toward math. We spoke about unseen forces: the voice in your head that kicks in when you’re stuck on a problem. For some, including me, that voice is discouraging, a reminder that I’m just not a math person. Mr. Olana encouraged me to discount that voice and told me he believed I could be a mathematical thinker if I could allow myself room to do so. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
1) Balance is key. 2) Listen to people you trust. You trust them for a reason. 3) Yes, academics. But true connections make the world go round. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: To be settled within myself and financially independent.
Christopher Terrell Blake AKA Chris Brooklyn, New York My favorite sport has to be football. I consistently showed up for the team and gave them 100% every time I was on the field whether it was in games or practice. I saw how dedicated past teammates were and that made me just as dedicated. The football team here became more than that for me; I really consider everyone on the team as family. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Friendly, bright, easy.
Nora Brookfield Bocock AKA Nonie Charlottesville, Virginia
HOMETOWN:
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Some advice I would give to underclassmen and future students is to always try to challenge and push yourself, whether it be physically, academically, or even socially. It can be really easy here to just coast along and get bored, but always having one aspect in your school life that challenges you can really help with that.
My favorite place at SAS is probably the Garth. It’s a place where many of my most cherished memories have been made— playing cards with friends, dancing at a silent disco, participating in an Art Major art show, and so much more. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Just like home! ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Never do work on a Saturday! Always try to spend your day outside exploring campus with friends—it gives you time to relax and reset, and it makes doing work on Sunday that much easier.
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Zadoc Hooper Bond
Emily Nicole Boyer
Easton, Maryland My favorite class at SAS was my ATT Latin class. Being a higher-level Latin class, we had completely done away with all learning of the language and were instead invested in reading and discussing ancient Latin works. Furthermore, the class was small and the vibes were good. We were able to get done what we needed to get done, but also pursue any side topics that interested us. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: The varsity squash team was my favorite at SAS. Mr. Foehl made time to coach us individually if we needed. The players on the team would practice with you no matter the skill disparity. Furthermore, there was also a lot of camaraderie amongst the boys and girls teams, and the two teams spent a lot of time outside of practice together. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Dancing was something new which I picked up at St. Andrew’s, and that has been one of my favorite things which I have done here. Mr. Gold is great at teaching and allowing you the freedom to do whatever you want and explore any genre. Because of this I was able to work up the confidence to feel comfortable in dancing wherever and whenever. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I absolutely love the Carol Shout.
Frederica, Delaware My two favorite sports teams to be a part of at SAS were the girls cross-country team and the girls soccer team. I had Mrs. Carroll for XC and Mr. Carroll for soccer and they have both been very impactful coaches for me. Mrs. Carroll and cross-country opened up my eyes to see that I had the ability to push myself further than I knew. Cross-country was a space where I was able to push my boundaries and comfort zone and feel supported by everyone on the team every step of the way, and I also was able to give that support back to my teammates as we all watched each other grow and become stronger athletes. Soccer was my favorite team sport that I played at SAS and the friendships I made on the field are very special. Mr. Carroll always showed his obvious commitment and excitement for the team and that made all of us better players. Overall, sports at SAS have been very impactful for me, and I have made some of my favorite memories and friendships here through sports. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite places on campus are all of the beautiful walking/running/hiking trails. At SAS, we are so lucky to have so much land and so many places to explore, so definitely take advantage of exploring nature and going on adventures with friends. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Kind, inspiring, unique
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS: TRY ANYTHING THAT YOU
INTERESTED IN!
LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS:
to be a Latin teacher.
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ARE
I really want
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Enjoy your time here! I remember freshman year looking ahead and feeling a little bit daunted by having four years ahead of me, but those four years truly do fly by and it is important to take in every experience and moment, and enjoy the memories and connections made along the way.
Sarah Carina Bruno Soulsbyville, California AS History: Empire of Liberty?—The United States in the World. This course made me reconsider the narratives I had been told about the U.S. Our discussions permanently complicated and reframed how I understand politics and domestic/international relations. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Being on the cross-country team allowed me to have lots of fantastic conversations with teammates and coaches, explore campus, and clear my head every afternoon. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: I will never forget Theo Jaffe singing “Hooked on a Feeling” with the Noxontones. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I am constantly finding new hidden gems in the woods around the pond. There are lots of quality places to reflect, build forts, climb trees, read, or chat with people. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
1. Get to know the faculty. You will become a better person for it. 2. Bring a hammock or another way to be outside comfortably. 3. Walk/run around the pond.
Claudina Felicia Buccini Bonetti Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania My favorite SAS tradition is Spring Fling! I love how we usually wake up expecting to go to class, but right before first period Mr. Roach announces the Free Day. Everyone always goes straight to the Front Lawn after putting on a bathing suit, and the whole school spends the day outside together. RECALL IN A DECADE: I think that the friendships I’ve made the past four years at SAS are what will stick with me the most. By the end of my time at SAS, there are so many people in the community who I now see as family. Whether it’s advisors, coaches, dorm parents, friends, etc. the relationships I have formed at SAS will forever stay with me. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
I would say to always remember to give each other grace. Even though we talk a lot about this at SAS, it really is important to remember that everyone comes from different backgrounds and experiences, and even at SAS the people around you may be going through something you aren't aware of. The best thing we can do for each other is act compassionately and always give each other grace.
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Catherine Baxter Butcher AKA Kate HOMETOWN:
Singapore
Wellesley, Massachusetts &
Crew! I’ve had so much fun being on the crew team. It has taught me a lot about working together and being persistent. I love getting to see the campus and Front Lawn from the water every day. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I love exploring the campus with friends. Some of my favorite memories are walking, running, talking, camping, and biking on the forest and cornfield trails. RECALL IN A DECADE: My relationships with my friends and peers have been the most impactful part of my SAS experience. I will remember SAS as a place full of kind, supportive, loving, and fun people. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Appreciate the little things in your day-today SAS life. It helps keep you from getting lost in how quickly time moves here and makes each day more memorable.
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Amrit Gail Chapman Charlottesville, Virginia Crew! It taught me confidence, strength, and persistence. It truly changed the way I viewed myself and showed me that I can do so much more than I ever thought I could. I also got to be a part of an amazing team of women who inspire me everyday! FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place at SAS is the field behind junior girls’ dorms. I have so many fun memories of sitting out there with friends on sunny afternoons chatting, listening to music, and enjoying time with each other. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
While studying and doing well in school are really important, also take time to have fun, make memories, build connections, and look after yourself!
Yinuo Chen AKA Christine Shanghai, China Creative Writing! It really helped me improve my craft a lot through the workshop process, and then there’s the treat of pitting Heidi Cobb against Mr. Torrey... FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: One of my favorite SAS memories (because it is impossible to pick one absolute favorite) is watching movies with friends on Saturday nights. This happened a lot during the colder months, and back before COVID, we’d order pizza or Hong Kong, sit in a classroom or sometimes even Engelhard, and watch movies. This sometimes also meant spontaneously bursting out in singing or dancing in front of the screen, or later on our walk back to dorm, or while hanging out in the Admissions Circle tree. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Spend time with friends and get to know your teachers as much as you can! In 20 years, you’ll remember those Front Lawn talks and walks in the woods much better and more fondly than your Sunday afternoons in the library cramming for that test that you probably did well on anyway. This place is special because of the people. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: Use my education and my voice for good! I want to keep writing and use it as a platform for advocacy work.
Heidrun Elizabeth Cobb AKA Heidi Warwick, Maryland My favorite class was Creative Writing, because I enjoyed creating written art and analyzing others’ works. The class really inspired me to keep on creating. The class environment was also fun and I felt I could be myself in the classroom. It was wonderful to put your heart and soul into a piece and then get feedback to improve it even more. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: They were all kinda miserable in their own way. If I had to choose it’d be runs in the fields by myself (which is not a sport). HOW I’VE CHANGED: I have become a more emotionally mature person and I am confident that I can face the world as a stronger person. In all honesty, I think I had to break myself down to build myself up to be a stronger and more resilient person. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I love the top floor library round table, because not only is it a fantastic study space, but it’s also a terrific place to watch the people of St. Andrew’s live their lives. You can see the entire Front Lawn from a bird’s eye view. It’s my favorite place to work, relax, and watch the world go by. POWER OF PROXIMITY: I listen to people’s stories, no matter when or where. I’ve become more understanding of the people around me, as I work to understand the experiences they’ve had and the place they're coming from. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
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Nia Iman Cross HOMETOWN:
Somerset, New Jersey
Going to Mrs. Hurtt’s Bohemia Lea Farm for our first advisory dinner every year. And of course, I can’t forget the Carol Shout. I will forever scream “2021” after every Christmas carol. RECALL IN A DECADE: Be bold, be loud, take risks—those are the first words that come to mind when I think about my time at St. Andrew’s. From the moment I was dropped off in front of Pell my freshman year, I was excited and eager to dive into this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, because I had nothing to lose and so much to gain. I have acquired many good habits and learned the importance of having discipline in my life; I apply discipline to the small things, such as exercising daily or choosing to listen to a podcast in the morning rather than scrolling through Instagram. I will carry those habits with me into my next chapter, so I can work towards being the best version of myself. You know, if I can spread discipline over my life like my favorite cream cheese on a bagel, I’ll continue to be such a force that the only person that can stop me is me. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Challenging. Community. Joy. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. I’ve realized here that it is far easier to ask for help than to wait for help to seek me. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I want to be happy. I want to live life freely knowing that there is a calling over my life and that with God’s grace and love it will continue to shine from within me. I want to have a family and build relationships that stand the test of time. I may become a policymaker in DC, or host my own television show. Whatever it may be, I just want to be me. 12
Anne Rivinus Denny AKA Annie Princeton, New Jersey Global Studies: Current Events because WillRob never gave homework and took us to Starbucks a lot, and because it was super-interesting to learn about what was happening all over the world. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Walking the Carroll dogs in the afternoon. I love the Carrolls and Mick and Maggie. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I love the grass docks with the floating dock because it is the best place to tan and listen to music with my friends! HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
The really good days outweigh the really bad ones.
Ashlie MacKinnon Doucette Chatham, New Jersey Any time I’ve walked around the Art Major studio while everyone is in the midst of their work, and I asked questions or just observed. I feel like I absorb some amount of creativity, curiosity, and focus from each person, and always return to my own piece with a new idea. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I think I am a much more hopeful person than when I first came here. St. Andrew’s has taught me to see the transformational power of relationships, hard work, and community values; seeing that power has expanded my belief of the capabilities we hold as individuals and communities. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: The triangle. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: It’s okay to start speaking/writing without yet understanding what you have to say. That’s actually kind of the point. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Intentional, sensitive, and enduring. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Find the people you can be weird with, and then spend a lot of time being weird with them. Dance without overthinking it. Remember that time spent getting to know people will never be time wasted. Write letters to people from home so that you can get mail here. Realize that no one’s actually judging you, and if they are, they probably won’t tell you anyways.
Elizabeth Rhett Edens AKA Rhett Charlotte, North Carolina Global Studies with Mr. Robinson. It started my very niche interest in the Zambian mining sector and fueled my preexisting interest in American government and the nature of power. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Being part of the Noxontones. I was lucky enough to make the group my freshman year, so this group has been part of my life since September 2017. In Noxontones we are required to set aside our personal motives to actively try to blend with those around us. When this happens successfully, we are no longer individuals; we are one sound. One entity. To me, this is the ultimate embodiment of the St. Andrew’s ethos: a silent agreement among members of a team to do our part to create a product we can all be proud of. We are all equally committed to one purpose. We lift each other up. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
You will find at least one person who changes your life and your perception of the world. For me, two of these people are Dr. Peter McLean and Eleri Phillips. Once you find your people, hold on tight to them and learn as much as you possibly can. Your time with them will be much too short. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: “I want to think again of dangerous and noble things. I want to be light and frolicsome. I want to be improbable and beautiful and afraid of nothing as though I had wings.” —Mary Oliver
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Sallie Millis England Denver, Colorado Hero’s Journey was my favorite class because I had not previously taken any courses that introduced me to anything in the realm of psychology. What we learned in this class about psychoanalysis and Freudian theory completely fascinated me and I was so excited to keep learning about it. This class inspired a whole career interest for me and it is because of Mr. Mufuka that I want to major in psych or anthropology or sociology. RECALL IN A DECADE: The moments that will stick with me forever are the ones that were created by doing something spontaneous. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I want to spend my life outside, making decisions purposefully and intentionally. And my biggest hope is that I will learn to live intuitively and stop spending time on things that don’t mean something to me.
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Oliver Pierre Firmenich Princeton, New Jersey Freshman Biology with Dr. McLean. He was passionate about what he taught, we went outside a lot, and I have a lot of memories from that class. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Cross-country or crew. Both were incredible teams that I always enjoyed being a part of, and were overall really rewarding experiences. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: Spring Fling. Being on the Front Lawn is great already, but with the rest of the school and being able to set aside any worries about schoolwork for the day makes it so much better.
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HOMETOWN:
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FAVORITE CLASS:
William Mogford Fry AKA Will Lexington, Kentucky My favorite class of my St. Andrew’s career was freshman Biology with Dr. McLean. He encouraged our curiosity about the different aspects of nature and our exploration of all 2200 acres of the campus. From the tree, bird, and quadrat projects, I learned to appreciate and value the various features of the natural world. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: My favorite team sport at St. Andrew’s was the swim team. Although I enjoyed it my first two years, I really began to appreciate the sport and team my junior year—the team was very united, well-coached, and genuine. Even though it can be a difficult and grueling sport, my teammates and coaches made it a great and memorable experience. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I grew about a foot. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
Elizabeth Mabel Hall HOMETOWN:
Bahamas
Toronto, Canada & Nassau,
My junior and senior year French classes with Mr. Westman! French is something I have been forced to learn since kindergarten because of my upbringing in Canada. Over time it became really hard for me to ever find a spark that allowed me to become truly engaged in the language and culture. Mr. Westman brought a new approach to learning and completely turned around my perspective on French as a class. He was able to relate the language content to topics my classmates and I were passionate about. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite SAS tradition has been the Carol Shout. It's unique to our community and it brings everybody together doing something crazy: screaming Christmas carols at the top of our lungs. POWER OF PROXIMITY: Coming in as a new sophomore, I felt like I had a lot of catching up to do, esepcially academically. When I lived abroad, teachers and faculty were never people that we were meant to go to for guidance or have any sort of connection with beyond the constraints of a 60 minute class block. Because of this cultural difference, I had a really difficult time being able to ask for help. The only way I was able to get through that was because of my sophomore year academic advisor, Dav. Building a relationship with a teacher and actually sharing my difficulties and moments of triumph was extremely uncomfortable, but in navigating that and allowing myself to become proximate, it allowed me to unlock similar relationships with so many of my teachers and broader members of the community. Without this I don’t think my SAS experience would have been remotely similar to how it turned out to be. FAVORITE CLASS:
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Amelia Maria Hammond Austin, Texas I really loved my freshman year English class with Mr. Porter. While I did not shine academically, I remember looking forward to class each day (even when I had "straight 8" or "straight 9"). Mr. Porter created such a fun class environment. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: I’ve loved being a part of both the volleyball and lacrosse teams at St. Andrew’s. They have taught me a lot about teamwork and I’ve gotten to know so many people that I otherwise might not have crossed paths with. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I love spending time on the docks around campus when the weather is nice with friends. The Front Lawn is also one of the best places to go and hang out, because when it’s nice and sunny it’s a great place to socialize, because so much of the student body will be there. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Lively, busy, enthusiastic.
Felix Iñaki Hernandez Miami, Florida All my math classes. These classes developed my problem-solving skills and triggered future aspirations for me. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Crew. I enjoy the thrill of being a part of the team that is rooted in commitment and history. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: Prom back in freshman and sophomore year before they changed it. RECALL IN A DECADE: The leadership and ethos that Mr. Roach instilled in me as a freshmen through to senior year.
HOMETOWN:
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE CLASS:
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
This quote: "I am not afraid of an army of lions led by sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion." A sentiment shared by a dear mentor of mine. POWER OF PROXIMITY: I witnessed the power of proximity when I had the opportunity to row in the varsity eight for St. Andrew’s at Stotesbury in Philadelphia. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Transforming, passionate, and necessary. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Do not follow, lead. Do not hold back, explore. Do not fight, resolve. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: Serve in the Unites States military at the United States Coast Guard Academy as an officer.
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Piper Lee Jackman
Noah Rao Kates
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Greek! Everyone should take Ancient Greek just for the sheer thrill of it. The camaraderie we have in that class is unmatched, and my knowledge of Ancient Greek just helped my team become the champions of the elite library trivia night, so clearly it was worth it. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: I love being in the musical. I can’t really sing to save my life, but being in the ensemble of a musical gave me so much energy, and it was fun to just sing and dance with all my friends. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I’ve become much more confident in myself, and I’ve learned to do things because they’re things I enjoy and not just because my older sister did them or because I held some arbitrary idea that I was “supposed to.” RECALL IN A DECADE: The feeling of living in an environment where you are surrounded by people who care about you. I can think of countless moments where friends and teachers showed me incredible kindness that inspired me to be a kinder person myself. One moment that sticks out to me is one day when I had kind of been hiding in my room all day and then the next morning one of my friends woke me up and asked me to come to breakfast because she said she hadn’t seen me and wanted to check in. It may have seemed like a small moment to her but it meant a lot to me. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: Do seniors count as adults? A senior once told me that asking a faculty member to meet with you for no apparent reason or to just talk about life is a completely acceptable thing to do and they will say yes. That advice was life-changing and led me to have six advisors instead of one. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: To put real bells in the bell tower.
New York, New York Ethics with Mr. G was my favorite. The class covered a wide array of thought-provoking moral problems and we always had interesting debates. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Tennis because I was able to play with a wide variety of people. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: I enjoyed Intro to the Arts freshman year. I was able to get out of my comfort zone. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I think I have become a better person and grown into myself.
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Make the best of your experience and get out on the weekends to spend time with your friends.
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Cole Thomas Kay Manhattan, New York have grown as a leader, student, and athlete. SAS not only helped me to articulate and strengthen my own opinions, but how to listen to and truly appreciate those of others, both inside and outside of the classroom. I am more determined and committed to the activities I’m involved in, and have become much more comfortable trying new things. Finally, and most importantly, I’m far more appreciative of all the opportunities I’ve been given, and excited to continue learning, growing, and achieving as much as I can.
HOMETOWN:
HOW I’VE CHANGED: I
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
The most memorable moments occurred when I was least expecting them. SAS inspires adventure every single day, whether it’s a class discussion, dorm function, or spontaneous activity with friends on the weekend. In order to make the most of your time at this school, you need to be open to each opportunity offered. Allow yourself to fall down the rabbit hole of whatever interests you have while you’re here, and pick up as many new hobbies as you can. The secret to never being bored is to take advantage of everything. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I love the food and beverage industry, health and wellness, and business. I’d like to work as a director of a non-profit organization that uses local produce, advanced food technologies, and a personal approach to supplying food to those in need around the world.
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Joseph Anthony Ketzner III AKA Trey Middletown, Delaware Both crosscountry and crew were really good experiences for me. I liked that they were both about pushing yourself, and really embracing the suck of each workout. Crosscountry forced me to train hard every day and try to improve myself, and crew forced me to pull as hard as I could every day for the other seven guys around me. I believe that balance between self motivation and team-driven discipline will serve me very well in my future. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I’ve learned to adapt to a tough schedule and make sure that there is time to do the things that I need to get done. I also grew a couple of inches; I'm funnier, smarter, and stronger than I’ve ever been. I also learned how to balance many different things in my life, such as family, school, sports, and more. RECALL IN A DECADE: I really like the woods and trails. Being outdoors in the woods is one of my favorite things to do, and SAS has had plenty of woods for me to explore. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Take it day by day, and don’t stress about work. If you manage your time well, you’ll get it done. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I want a family of my own that I can provide for and give a good life.
Matthew Daniel Kijowski Madison, Wisconsin Ethics junior year—it was a really great group of people and I loved Mr. G and how he led class. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: I loved Chamber Music. We had a small group of musicians and we could forget about most stuff and just make music.
Nicholas Beatty Lampietti Washington, D.C. AS Astronomy with Dr. Hyde and Global Wisdom with Mr. Kunen. Both enormously challenging, they forced me to think and work in ways that were deeply uncomfortable and rewarding. In Astronomy, a math and physics-intensive class far outside of my comfort zone, I grew to love the thrill of reaching the end of a multi-step problem set. In Global Wisdom, reading Rene Descartes Meditations on First Philosophy was akin to climbing Mount Everest; finishing the last page was one of the greatest feelings in the world. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I’ve learned so much about who I am and the kind of person I want to be. I’ve become more flexible, thoughtful, and empathetic. I’ve become a better problem-solver. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My happiest memories, favorite traditions, and most meaningful moments occurred on the Front Lawn—after dinner on a warm summer evening, during impromptu snowball fight, while basking in the sun on a Free Day, or under the stars during a late-night game of cards, the Front Lawn is where connections are made and friendships formed. It embodies what makes St. Andrew’s beautiful and unique: anyone can sit down with anyone, we have meaningful conversations, and we prioritize face-to-face interactions. St. Andrew’s, at its core, is about genuine human connection.
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HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Sophomore year last night of school, we played manhunt downstairs in Founders at 4 AM. RECALL IN A DECADE: The small moments with friends that spontaneously occur. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Always be open to change—nothing is really set in stone. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I don’t really know but I want to do, but I know it is something where I get to actively help people.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
It is never, and I mean NEVER, too late to make new friends at St. Andrew’s. It’s senior spring, and there are people in my grade that I am just now starting to get to know. Just because your circle of friends or grade feels small, doesn’t mean it has to be. Don’t be afraid to reach out; chances are, most people feel the same way you do! 19
Zadoc Livingston Otis Le Roy AKA Zack Concord, Massachusetts I have loved every team I have been on at SAS, each one has their own moments, but one that particularly stands out to me is from my crew team. My boat had an amazing week of PR’s, pond records, and wins, and the energy and enthusiasm that filled the boat every day made one feel as if they could do anything, because you would know that the rest of the boat stood behind you. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Warm, supportive, life changing HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Live in the moment. Take every opportunity that is thrown your way, because high school moves by fast. Go on adventures, walk around the pond, go camping, go to the dances, and especially don’t pass up on the little things because sometimes simple conversations will be what you remember most.
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Elizabeth Levengood New York City, New York My favorite sport at SAS has been volleyball because of the close-knit team it fosters. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Active, energetic, vibrant. FAVORITE CLASS: My favorite class at St. Andrew’s has been creative writing because it has pushed me to write creatively and break away from the norm of writing traditional analytical papers. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
Matthew Booth Lilley AKA Matt
Nicholas Martin Lilley AKA Nick
Silver Spring, Maryland My favorite class at SAS was Global Wisdom. The class pushed me to think in new ways and helped broaden my view on life. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: The soccer team at SAS will always be close to my heart. Being able to play the sport I love with my closest friends was truly an amazing experience. Despite all the joyful memories that were made, I do wish that it could’ve ended differently. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: One of my favorite memories was beating the faculty team in SAISL. The Old Gym was packed with students and the atmosphere after we won was ecstatic. RECALL IN A DECADE: I’ll remember the kindness and inclusivity that defines our community.
Silver Spring, Maryland AS History: Modern Middle East with Mr. Gilheany. I truly enjoyed learning about the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and US foreign policy towards the Middle East. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: I loved being on the varsity soccer team. My favorite moment was when we beat Wilmington Friends 5-0 sophomore year. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I have come to understand how St. Andrew’s provides its students with the tools and mindset necessary to bring about lasting change in the world. In my classes, on my sports teams, and on dorm, I have been motivated by my relationships and experiences to live life with a purpose. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place at St. Andrew’s is the athletic center and the fields which surround it. I love the way light shines through the glass windows in the Field House before a 4:00 PM practice. And I am reminded of how amazing our facilities are every time I walk into the gym. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: Phil Davis told the wrestling team about how the way we represent SAS to other teams and to the state of Delaware is so important. Someone is always watching you, and so if you can do good and represent yourself proudly, do it. Coach Phil taught me how to extend the St. Andrew’s ethos, kindness, and warmth to others. I felt proud and I felt a sense of belonging when we wrestled hard, were good sports, and were polite in our interactions with other teams and fans. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Rewarding, thought-provoking, and united.
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
No matter how overwhelming and stressful school can get, try to have fun and focus on your happiness in the present.
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
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Patrick James Mauboussin
Mason Bedford McKee
Darien, Connecticut AS Anatomy & Physiology. I loved the case studies and developing my understanding of the human body and its functions. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Lacrosse is my favorite sport to play and the team is very supportive, competitive, and fun. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place on campus is the Front Lawn and T-Dock, particularly in the spring when it is warm out.
Nashville, Tennessee English with Mr. Roach junior year. He improved my writing and made English class a class to look forward to. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Football, because I’m pretty good at it. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Making the Joe Biden piece I’m working on right now. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I’ve matured and become less stressed about the little things. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: Frosty Run. RECALL IN A DECADE: Football games.
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FAVORITE CLASS:
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
There are so many opportunities to learn a new hobby here. Learn guitar or get into robotics or something. The opportunities are endless.
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Hayden Oliver Messina Princeton, New Jersey St. Andrew’s I’ve become more self-aware. I’ve learned how to live an examined life where I’m deliberate with words and actions. Many aspects of the St. Andrew’s community, from formal Chapel talks to casual conversations with friends, have contributed to this awareness. At the same time, I’ve been able to find a balance between consciousness and being present. This balance has allowed me to enjoy each individual moment of this spring while simultaneously seeing the bigger picture and being grateful for the opportunity to attend this amazing school.
HOMETOWN:
HOW I’VE CHANGED: At
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
John Tyler Meyer AKA JT HOMETOWN:
Bronxville, New York
My favorite place would probably be the grass docks. It is a nice place to take a call, fish with friends, or just chill without too many people walking by. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: Mr. Carroll told me to stop getting angry about the marks/points system. Still working on this one. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Maintain balance. It’s never good to devote too much time to any one thing. You shouldn’t have all your eggs in one basket.
Don’t try and plan out your free time. Especially on weekends, the most fun and memorable experiences I’ve had were completely spontaneous. Sometimes this means going between many different activities, like canoeing and paddle tennis, based on what you feel like doing in the moment. But it can include bigger events as well, like an unplanned three-hour hike around the pond. To truly enjoy this unstructured free time, I’ve found it helpful to establish parts of the week to completely forget about school work. For example, I never do homework or schedule meetings on Saturdays after classes end, so that I do not feel an obligation to be productive and can focus on whatever I’m doing. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: Between physics, community service, law, teaching, and more, I have many more career and life aspirations than I could ever pursue. Therefore my goal is simply to live a meaningful life improving the world and doing something that I enjoy.
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Andrew Robert Mitchell I lived on campus for three of four years at SAS. FAVORITE CLASS: My senior year biology class. Despite COVID-19 restrictions, Mr. O’Connell found ways to make the sometimes extremely confusing material interesting and fun. My favorite parts of the class were two projects we did. The first was in our genetics unit where Mr. O’Connell helped me learn about angiogenesis, and, on the side, about a genetic condition HHT. And now, in a bit of a reboot of the Curiosity Quest, he is helping Caden Wood and me explore the microscopic life in different parts of Noxontown Pond. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Crew. Nothing beats the feeling of finally winning a race with the eight other guys you have been tirelessly practicing with the entire season. And the team isn't just restricted to your boat—everyone is together. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: The first time I participated in the fall play. Everything about the experience was just generally great. Learning the lines, learning the play with the other actors, and finally, on opening night, showing off what we had rehearsed was amazing. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: In the first few weeks of my junior year, some of my friends and I went on a spree of doing fun things together over the weekend— eating out at Chick-Fil-A, and Kiku, going bowling. We were all broke afterwords, but it was definitely fun while it lasted. The Frosty Run was also always fun, especially because for the last two years I brought extra money to grab some Wendy's burgers and fries. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: My advisor Mr. O’Connell telling me to go for it—whatever “it” may be—tended to always be good advice. HOMETOWN:
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Matthew Arnold Mitchell AKA Matt Pomfret, Connecticut My favorite team sport at SAS was wrestling. Although I only got to do one season of it, fighting in a match for your team is an amazing feeling, especially when you win. Even if you lose, you are encouraged to do better through the rigorous training and by the great coaches. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite tradition that I hope returns next year is the DC trip. It really me helped form closer bonds with my friend group, and it is a great way to get off campus and have fun. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: St. Andrew’s has allowed me to get a great education and go to college. While I do not know what exactly I want to do in the long term, I know that I have the ability and knowledge I need in order to be successful. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
Le Duy Anh Nguyen AKA Duy Anh HOMETOWN:
Hanoi, Vietnam
Soccer. I got to experience all three levels of this sport and made so many good friends through it. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Freestyling in the music studio with my friends. Doing this allowed us to explore our passion for music and express our emotions freely. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I learned how to better appreciate spending time with friends and family, having had to split between the two. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
Elizabeth Hunt Nielsen AKA Izzy HOMETOWN:
Chicago, Illinois
My favorite team I was a part of at SAS was definitely the girls varsity squash team. All those long van rides listening to Taylor Swift with Mr. Foehl, stops for Shake Shack after long matches, the dreaded Wednesday workout circuit practices, and the fun times at Nationals have made my time at SAS so much better. I loved being part of such a fun team that really supported each other and made the best of every match, game, and practice. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I have so many favorite places at SAS: the bench out at Alumni Point is a great place to sit and think or have a good conversation with a friend; the practice rooms in the Arts Center where I love to go play piano as a nice break in the middle of the day; my room on Gaul Center with light streaming through our windows in the morning or at night when I’m hanging out with my roommates; the cornfields on a sunny day; Señora’s backyard for advisory functions; sitting in the chairs on the T-dock; listening to music on top of any of the watchtowers; in a canoe on the pond; tanning on a towel on the grass docks; and so many more. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Growth, friendship, learning. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Be okay with doing your own thing! It took me too long to realize you don’t need to be constantly surrounded by tons of people to be having a good time at SAS. The things you are super-passionate about are not going to be the same things as everybody else, so it’s really important to go off and explore those passions even if that means you’re doing it alone. It will always end up being worthwhile!
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Gino Matteo Palacios Queens, New York I’ve had so many arts experiences at SAS that it is so difficult to just pick one. My favorite visual art experience would definitely be my Art Major class this year. I get to work alongside other great artists while listening to music and chatting. There are moments of relaxation, laughter, and focus, and I love seeing the progress of all my classmates' pieces from a rough draft to a masterpiece. As for theatre, my favorite experience has been the winter musicals—my favorite musical being The Addams Family last year. Playing the goofy role of Pugsley and getting to spend my afternoons singing, dancing, and acting alongside friends was such a memorable experience. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place at SAS would probably be the Front Lawn. One of my favorite things each day is sitting outside during meals and talking with others while we eat together. I’ve had so many fun conversations and connections made on the Front Lawn and I love the days when I can sit there for hours with a group laughing and having fun. Doing this has given me the opportunity to get closer with people who I otherwise probably wouldn’t know too well. Even sitting alone on the Front Lawn is pleasant, especially on spring days when I can sit on the dock and look out at Noxontown Pond or sit in a hammock and read. RECALL IN A DECADE: I don’t think I will ever forget how much fun I’ve had over the weekends here at SAS. From fire pits, to Open Mic Nights, to dances, to movies, to trips to town, to card games, to Playa Bowls and so much more, my weekends here have been filled with wonderful memories of time spent together with friends that I will always cherish. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE:
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Andrew Park HOMETOWN:
Delaware
Seoul, South Korea & Bear,
My favorite class at St. Andrew’s has been Humanities. The integration of historical sources with the powerful literature we read allows for a much more fulfilling exploration of the texts we read. Discussing the importance of stories, the impact of author credibility and societal issues, or the powerful senior oral exhibition are all experiences of Humanities that have transformed the way I approach history, literature, and the past.
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
The one thing any senior class will agree on is that your time here at St. Andrew’s is short. There’s not enough time to sit overthinking or being bored in your room. All it takes is one moment of confidence and a little bit of grit to see it through, and something great will come from it. So be active, go outside, hang out with new people! At the very least, you won’t regret the fact that you tried, failed, and got back up better because of it. So take the chance and be spontaneous. What’s the worst that could happen? LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: My longterm goal is to do something that makes me happy. It wasn’t until my last year here at SAS that I learned what that felt like, doing something purely because it makes me happy, and there’s nothing more exciting than that. Of course, there will be times when I struggle to find that, or struggle to stay motivated, but I think the process of it all is just as important. I’m still in the process of searching right now, but I want to live the rest of my life with intention, no matter what I do. That being said, I would also love to live in a NYC or California industrial loft apartment with a cat, maybe during or right after graduate school.
Yash Patel HOMETOWN:
Kent Wilkin Peters
San Francisco, California
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Lancaster, Pennsylvania The squash team was my favorite team, because of the close friendships that I created while on the team. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: When I got the chance to pour spoiled milk on Charles Sun’s head for a photo project. RECALL IN A DECADE: I think that my friends will be the most significant takeaway from my experiences at SAS. HOMETOWN:
My
favorite SAS tradition is Spring Fling. Nothing can compete with the idea of the whole school coming together on a warm sunny spring day. Spring Fling really pushed me to appreciate the greater SAS campus and community. My most cherished memories include hanging out on the Front Lawn with my friends, listening to music, passing around a soccer ball, playing spikeball, swimming in the pond, kayaking, paddle tennis... you get the point. The list goes on and on. There’s so much to do, it’s just a matter of how you use what’s given to you. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Family, rewarding, engaging.
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
If you really want something to happen, you might as well push for it yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask a teacher to get you food.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Make the most out of your time here at SAS. Four years seems like a long time, but before you know it, you will be in your final few weeks of St. Andrew’s career. During your time here, push yourself to try new things. It’s okay to feel uncomfortable. The skills you garner throughout your time here will be helpful for years to come. Ultimately, the St. Andrew’s experience is what you make of it. Really push yourself to become the best version of yourself. Cherish the moments with your peers, as those will become some of your fondest and best memories of your life.
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Eleri Anwen Phillips Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania have become more open, empathetic, grounded, and patient. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: The woods.
Griffin Elizabeth Pitt Charlotte, North Carolina
HOMETOWN:
HOMETOWN:
HOW I'VE CHANGED: I
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
Living is giving.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Remember how lucky you are to be here. Go on long walks. Write thank you notes. Practice gratitude. Watch the birds. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I will live in a small, cozy home full of light with many books and lots of windows where I will bake bread and read Mary Oliver. I want my life to be simple but meaningful and full of love.
I’ve come to appreciate the serendipitous moments that we often overlook at St. Andrew’s—like saying “hey” in passing to someone in the hallway, striking up a conversation on your way to lunch, or stopping by a teacher’s classroom during your free block. It’s these spontaneous moments of connectedness that truly personify the St. Andrew’s ethos.
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
Wow! Highlights from the four years of advice I’ve gathered include: reminders to practice self care courtesy of Ms. Furlonge; advice to “just do it" from Mrs. Berl; almost every Chapel Talk ever; and multiple suggestions from a certain dorm parent that it would probably be beneficial for me to occasionally break some rules. Also, this iconic All-Students email from Will Rob back in 2019: “The woods are lovely, dark, and deep—if you are sitting inside right now, come out and take a stroll in the woods. The trees will give you shelter from the drizzle and it is amazingly refreshing.” ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
How could I ever condense it all down into a single paragraph! The abridged version would be: Prioritize your relationships above all else. I wish someone had told me freshman year that getting to know my classmates after dinner or on the weekends was just as important as going back to my room to study. It took a pandemic for me to realize that the significance of St. Andrew’s is the people. Get to know the faculty and staff. Stay and talk at dinner for as long as possible. Go on walks around Noxontown Pond and faculty car rides into town. Play in the snow. Of course, grades and extracurricular activities matter, but authentic relationships are most important.
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Arush Puri India I really like Engineering. The class was thought-provoking and it was connected to many of my interests. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: I loved lacrosse, mainly because of my teammates and the coaches—they were the people that made the experience so fun. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: I loved taking Photography. Photography is something that I am interested in, and I learned so much about cameras and this form of art. HOW I’VE CHANGED: During my time at St. Andrew’s I think I have matured significantly. St. Andrew’s has also helped me see things from various perspectives and made me more adaptive as a person. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite SAS tradition is the Frosty Run. RECALL IN A DECADE: I think St. Andrew’s has truly helped me see the importance in stepping out of my comfort zone, and that is something that will stick with me in the future. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
Edward Hammond Pyle AKA Teddy Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts My favorite class at St. Andrew’s was US History with Mr. Carroll, which I took during my junior year. My classmates were all former new sophomores, which created a fun class dynamic, and Mr. Carroll is an amazing teacher. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place at St. Andrew’s is the Chapel. I’ve always felt that it has a calming and reflective atmosphere, which can be a welcome break from the fast pace of life at St. Andrew’s. RECALL IN A DECADE: St. Andrew’s has allowed me to be friends with people I never would have talked to otherwise. I think the new perspectives I gained from these friendships will stick with me the most. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Make sure you make the most out of your time at SAS!
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Mary Emmaline Rickert AKA Emmaline London, England Mr. Porter’s English 3 class! I loved the books that we read and our discussions allowed me to open my mind to different people’s perspectives and compare them to my own. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Girls varsity tennis!!!! The people made being a part of that team the best. Some of my favorite memories from senior year will be with that team. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I have learned a lot about myself and who I want to be in life. When I came here as a new sophomore I was a completely different person than I am now. This place has made me a better person. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Nighttime talks with my roommate, babysitting the Carroll kids, spending time outside with my friends in the hammocks, Sunday School, and days with the girls tennis team are some of my favorite memories at SAS.
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
"Take time for yourself more often."
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Gianna Xiomara Rosario Chicago, Illinois my experience at SAS I have become a more open, expressive, and honest person. Before coming to SAS there was always a distance between me and other people, but because of the culture here (and annoying as things like the cell phone policy may be), I was able to get rid of that barrier and form friendships that have bettered me as a person. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite memory at SAS was the DC trip my sophomore year. Often at SAS it can feel like we’re stuck in the same bubble and the same routines, but that day my friends and I were able to really enjoy the independence of St. Andrew’s without being confined on campus. From trying the Starbucks mango dragonfruit drink for the first time, to ice skating, to almost missing the bus back to campus, that’s a day that I will never forget. HOMETOWN:
HOW I’VE CHANGED: Through
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Be unapologetically yourself. Everywhere you go, including SAS, someone will tell you who you should and shouldn’t be, but at the end of the day this is your life and you have to live it the way you want.
Owen Elliott Schneider Newark, Delaware While wrestling is not my favorite sport, the wrestling team has been my favorite team at SAS. Both the soccer team and the crew team come super-close, but there is something unique about the wrestling team that sets it apart. Phil Davis pushed us hard every day, and we worked hard, and with that came a satisfaction of success and physical achievement that surpassed what I felt playing other sports. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place on the St. Andrew’s campus is the driveway past the soccer practice fields and faculty houses. The sunsets there are absolutely amazing, and taking a longboard trip out to that drive with some friends are some of my favorite memories at SAS.
Yihan Shen AKA Hans
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Just live in every moment. Some of the best memories I have at SAS have been from being spontaneous. Say yes to as many opportunities as you can. You have from 8:00 PM study hall until about 8:00 AM to be in your room. For the rest of each day, be in your room as little as possible. Walk around the pond with some friends. Play spikeball. Pick up a new hobby. Enjoy the amazing campus. Spend time with people you might not usually hang out with. One of my regrets at SAS has been not branching out sooner. There are so many people to make memories and go on adventures with. Some of my more exciting memories have been with groups of people that I never thought would hang out together. I know everyone says it, but time really does go by quickly. Just recognize that and let every day be filled with as much fun as possible— because I would give a lot to have this experience again. Just. Enjoy. It.
Shanghai, China English 3 with Mr. Roach! That class was my favorite because Mr. Roach was such an inspiring and approachable teacher. While teaching or just reading a short excerpt of text, his passion for literature shines through all his seriousness as a Hea of School. The discussions were also very engaging and inclusive, which made the class especially fun while reading seemingly overwhelming novels such as Anna Karenina (currently one of my favorites). FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Boys tennis in 2019. Really great leadership and camaraderie. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Jazz Ensemble—it is a very welcoming environment. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Getting my friend Matthew Kijowski to pick up pizza.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Know that people here care about you, and always reach out to people when in need.
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Zachary Stover Sheppard AKA Zach Ridgeland, Mississippi Mr. Finch’s Econ class was by far my favorite class at St. Andrew’s. I was particularly fascinated by the class because of its real-life application and obvious relevancy of its topics in the 21st century. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Spending time with Mr. Foehl and the squash program has left me with some of the most memorable experiences in all of my St. Andrew’s career. Traveling to Nationals in the late winter allowed me to strengthen my relationships with my teammates, and left me with several fond memories. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS: The best advice I can give
to future students is to truly dive into every opportunity you can and from there decide what you actually enjoy. There are so many different activities and parts of the St. Andrew’s culture to learn from—it can only help you to put yourself out there.
Belle Foley Shiffman HOMETOWN:
Arlington, Virginia
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Sophomore year, the girls varsity basketball season hadn’t had a winning season in years. We were the closest we had been to this goal in so long, and we had one of our final games against Tatnall, a school we often struggled to compete against in the past. As we fought on our home court, the Old Gym filled up with students crowding in to watch... and we won. The energy that filled the gym and being with that team, celebrating the 41-35 scoreboard, many of us in tears, was a moment I’ll never forget. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: This past lacrosse season, despite the talent on our team, we were having trouble competing with other teams in our conference. Despite our 1-8 record, after every game, Mrs. Carroll would always say to “leave that game on the field"—to not carry the loss with us and to move forward with motivation to fight for the next one. More broadly, she is teaching this idea not to carry with you your anger or disappointment, but rather to reflect and then move forward. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Go on walks alone.
I want to join the Peace Corps and start a non-profit combating health or education inequities.
LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS:
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Robert Shyroian HOMETOWN:
Dnipro, Ukraine
I had a lot of fun playing thirds basketball, because we had an amazing team and an amazing coach in Mr. Poarch. HOW I'VE CHANGED: I adjusted to American culture, and developed life long friendships. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I enjoy spending time with my friends on the Front Lawn. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
Clare Yilan Slinkard Newark, Delaware My favorite class at SAS was anatomy. It was challenging, engaging, and fun. It loved learning about the human body and how it functions day to day. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: I have two favorite teams: the basketball team and the soccer team. I love them because of the energy between my teammates. I love playing both sports, but the people on the team make practices and games something I look forward to every day, and I get to stay friends with them outside of the court or field. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: I loved the Garth Art Show. I thought that it was super-unique to our experience with COVID-19 because the show had to be in an outdoor setting. It was a really cool way to display Art Major work from the first half of the year. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Be true to who you are. Be honest with your values, friendships, and what makes you happy.
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Heleah Zara Soulati Easton, Maryland My favorite team at SAS is definitely the girls lacrosse team. Ever since I stepped on the field my freshman year, I have felt the overwhelming support of my teammates and coaches, who always encouraged me to work my hardest and to believe in myself. This group has taught me what it means to be a team player, and our singing and dancing functions have definitely helped me get out of my comfort zone and bond with this group of amazing people. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place at SAS would have to be the woods! From getting lost for four hours with one of my friends freshman year to my daily runs in the winter of junior year, the trails have become my second home and a place where I can relax, decompress, and think through my day. RECALL IN A DECADE: I have learned the power of being open and vulnerable with others and taking the time to listen to the diverse stories of my peers. Everyone has a unique and beautiful story, and by taking the time to listen to others, we can really learn more about ourselves and, at the same time, develop the most genuine, long-lasting friendships. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I hope to become a healthcare provider and help each of my patients by truly listening to their stories and being able to connect with each person in their native language. In the long run, I would love to focus on preventative medicine to help underserved populations.
Kaicheng Sun AKA Charles
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
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HOMETOWN:
Beijing, China
My favorite team at SAS was definitely thirds squash freshman year with Mr. Wright. It sparked a love in me for squash and motivated me to move up to JV.
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
One of my favorite memories from SAS was staying at St. Andrew’s during long weekend, not a lot of people know how fun it can be at SAS during long weekends. I got to know a lot of people really well whom I wouldn’t have ever talk to otherwise, and everyone is really chill.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Mr. O’Connell is the greatest thing to happen to American education since the invention of the pencil sharpener. Also, if you shake him, wood shavings will spill everywhere.
Jackson Ezekiel Swets Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia Astronomy. Dr. Hyde is a fantastic teacher and this course is one of her areas of expertise. I really enjoyed how the units began with our solar system, and subsequently got broader, with our last topic being the universe as a whole. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Varsity soccer. The camaraderie and traditions were what made the team so special. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: The jazz concert right before Spring Break my junior year. It was the best concert we put on during my time here, and Nina Zimmerman and Alani Davila sang with the band. The audience really enjoyed the concert, and it felt great to put on the performance. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
Theodore Jenot Taylor AKA Theo New Orleans, Louisiana Global Wisdom with Mr. Kunen, because it broadened the way I look at the world and provided a framework for being more mindful about and working to understand the viewpoints of others. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: The wrestling team. Obviously you get really close with anyone you’re rolling around with every single day. But I also really liked the atmosphere we created of checking your ego at the door and giving everything 100% while still laughing and cracking jokes with each other. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: I am a huge fan of both the Square Dance and the salsa dance. Both of these events allow us to come together as a community. And when everyone buys into the same mentality of “I know this isn’t ‘normal’ but we’re gonna just do it because it’s fun,” everyone comes away from the experience with memories they won’t soon forget. RECALL IN A DECADE: I think that the way everyone says “hi” to each other all around campus, even if you don’t really know each other, is really special. It will definitely be a change when I go to a new school next year, but I am sure that even as I walk down city streets in the future, I’ll have the instinct to nod or smile at a passerby. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Try everything, find what you love, and pursue it fully. A big part of this is not letting yourself be defined by any one thing you do. A huge part of SAS is the multidimensionality of everyone on this campus. Just because you’re good at something, doesn’t mean you have to do it or like it—it doesn’t mean you can’t drop it and find something else that is cool.
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Traevon Fritz Thomas AKA Tre Soundview, Bronx, New York Ethics, because playing devil’s advocate was lit. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: Volleyball. The games were always exciting. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Photo with Mr. Meier. He taught me the ins and outs of what makes a good photo. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Weight Room
When thirds basketball beat JV by eight points.
RECALL IN A DECADE:
BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT:
It’s fun to play around, but realize when you have to buckle down and make strides forward in life. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Don’t waste your time complaining about SAS. Just enjoy it. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: Become a philanthropist.
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Eliot David Thomas Hilton Manila, Philippines AS Physics. This is the class that really made me enjoy learning physics, and made me want to continue learning it in university. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: The SAS crew team is my favorite team, because of the people who I row with, and the coaches. It was the first time I felt comfortable on a team, and able to hold my own in a competitive sports setting. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: Drawing 1 was a very fun class, where I discovered the extent of my drawing abilities, and my love for precise artwork. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Noxontown Pond is my favorite place on campus. I have plenty of memories canoeing on it, swimming in it, exploring around it, learning to row on it, racing on it, throwing coxswains into it, and so on. RECALL IN A DECADE: The most important thing that I have learned from St. Andrew’s is my love of learning. Now, when I stumble across something that interests me, I love to learn all about it, and I have St. Andrew’s to thank for that. POWER OF PROXIMITY: As a whole, living with your classmates teaches one plenty about proximity. Living on a dorm teaches you how to respect others’ space and how to compromise. You learn a lot about your roommates through St. Andrew’s, and the experience you gain is very valuable. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I hope to major in either Physics or Aeronautical Engineering at Purdue, then get a PhD, probably somewhere else in the world. I just love building things and if I can do that for my job, I’ll never work a day in my life!
Jill K. Tora Langhorne, Pennsylvania Girls basketball, especially my sophomore year. The team was small and we were required to put in serious effort and energy during practices, but we also bonded in a way that I had never done before on my other sports teams. HOW I’VE CHANGED: Before SAS, I was a pretty introverted and quiet person, and I didn’t really know who I was. I think SAS gave me a place to try new things, break out of my comfort zone, and figure out who I am as an individual. I have gone from not speaking in class to having the confidence to lead groups, meetings, and the school.
Marie Ueda Westchester County, New York I was lucky enough to be in Mr. Speers’ English class my sophomore year. One moment that really stuck with me was when we received our grades on the first paper. I had never gotten a grade that low. Since the class average was a bit concerning, he then told us that our midterm was to rewrite that paper. This was one of the biggest learning experiences for me, as I was able to really push my thinking to another level and reconstruct my ideas. This class also allowed us to engage in some of the best, most thoughtful discussions I've had at SAS. It was one of the hardest classes I have taken during my time at SAS, and it was definitely one of the most rewarding ones.
HOMETOWN:
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Tradition: Semi or the Senior Haunted House Place: Dock by the retention pond. Memory: My sophomore year prom group! The boys were all over the place, so we all ended up cooking together. I think it was especially fun because I wasn’t particularly close with this group of boys and it was a great bonding experience. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: That sometimes it’s ok to take a break and take time to collect yourself. There’s no need to stress about school and work because we all need to have balance in our St. Andrew’s lives. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Tight-knit, open, accepting. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Always be confident in your choices, decisions, and yourself. No one will question what you’re doing if you do it with confidence.
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Moments where everyone is having fun on the Front Lawn definitely stand out. Most things that take place at SAS happen on the Front Lawn: the Square Dance, prom, Spring Fling, after-dinner hangouts, spontaneous Free Days. It’s a place that embodies the SAS spirit and never fails to bring a smile to my face. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Warm, lifechanging, home. ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Get to know faculty both in and out of classes, whether it be sitting at their lunch table, driving into town, or simply seeing them on the Front Lawn. Their wisdom, stories, and experiences are invaluable, and they have so much to share. Explore the woods, campus, try a new club, and step out of your comfort zone. Try to hang out with people you normally wouldn’t hang out with. You’d be surprised by how much fun you have. Take advantage of the many opportunities SAS has to offer, and finally, treasure every moment like it’s the last!
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Arvin Neel Vanikar Derwood, Maryland My favorite class at SAS was AS English 3 with Mr. Torrey. Going into my junior year, English had never been something that I loved. However, from the moment we read A&P by John Updike during the first week of school, I knew that this class was going to be special. The iceberg deconstructions we did were invaluable in teaching me what lies at the heart of a story, and I felt myself connecting to literature in ways I had never done before. There was so much else that I learned in this class that would take too long to write out here. I consider it the best class I ever took. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I think I’ve become a mature and responsible person. When I first arrived at St. Andrew’s I was really nervous and had no sense of time management. Four years later I can say that I am much better at balancing my life, and have gained the ability to handle positions of responsibility with the calmness and dedication that they require. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: It’s okay to ask for help. If you have a question, ask it. There’s nothing wrong with not knowing what's going on. This is basically what my advisor told me during my first week at SAS. POWER OF PROXIMITY: I think SAS does a good job when it comes to engaging students in community service. Through community service I have become proximate with many people in the Middletown community and have gained valuable knowledge and life lessons. LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I don’t know. My classmates said I would most likely be “serving our country in clandestine ways.” I don’t know what that really means, but it sounds kind of cool.
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Leila Forbes Warren Seattle, Washington My Greek classes! Even when we’re knee-deep in a tough translation, we still manage to laugh about what we’re reading, receive Dr. Walsh wisdom, and exclaim in a dead language or two. επι δελφινος! FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: K Dorm! I’ll always miss our late nights in the common room, 2:00 AM fire alarms, and the couch where vegan cookies go to die.
HOMETOWN:
HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Reach out and build relationships with your teachers. I am so grateful to have gotten to know so many of the adults here, which is something I think is pretty unique to SAS. Take advantage of opportunities to get to know them! LONG-TERM HOPES & ASPIRATIONS: I’d love to make my way to every continent, continue to advocate for environmental issues, and do marine biology while keeping connected to the classics. Maybe I can teach a fish some Latin!
Zaia Marie Williams Brooklyn, New York My favorite class at SAS is English because English at SAS always pushes conversations in endless directions! I am grateful to have had an English class experience with almost every English teacher at SAS: Mr. Porter freshman year, Mr. Speers sophomore year, Mr. Roach my junior year, Mrs. Hurtt my senior year, Mr. Torrey in Creative Writing, Mrs. Roach for my Exhibition, and Mrs. Reddy in my senior tutorial! HOW I’VE CHANGED: I feel like at St. Andrew’s I have really grown into myself and figured out who I am, as well as what I need from my environments. I think that now I am more apt to discern what I’m passionate about, the type of people I want to be around, and how to take care of myself, mentally and physically. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite tradition is the Frosty Run! It is so much fun to be with everyone and run off the buses into Wendy’s to dip salty fries into Frosties while mingling with everyone. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Ever-changing, thought-provoking, reliable. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Don’t compromise who you are, as long as you aren’t hurting yourself or anyone else. Being confident in that, and comfortable with how you’re growing into your identity, will keep you sane.
Miriam Felicity Wilmerding AKA Mimi HOMETOWN:
Hong Kong
My favorite sport at SAS has definitely been tennis. I’m a singles player, and I like how it’s only on me if I win or lose. I also love the mental focus and toughness that is required to stay in the game and win points. RECALL IN A DECADE: I will always be so grateful for the friends I’ve made at SAS. My friends here bring out the best version of myself and are always there to keep me in check! I’m especially grateful for my roommate, Jill, who has taught me the most and also has definitely had to deal with me the most. Overall, I don’t know if I’ll ever find a place with as much kindness and compassion as St. Andrew’s. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Kindness, intensity, curiosity. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Use SAS to lean into what you’re curious about and embrace every part of yourself. St. Andrew’s is the best place to challenge yourself, grow, and explore things you haven’t already. Also, you have to do at least one adventurous or new thing with your friends every weekend, no matter how much work you have!
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Bryer Madelyn Wood HOMETOWN:
Middletown, Delaware
My favorite places on campus are the many deer trails that snake through the woods. Being under the canopy of the trees, alone or with a friend, and feeling so far removed from the hustle and bustle of school life will always be my favorite way to unwind. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Goal-oriented, autonomous, inquisitive. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Don’t let the majority tell you how to think. Only you know what you think is right and wrong, so hold those beliefs close to you, no matter what other people say.
Caden Thurman Wood Middletown, Delaware My favorite class at St. Andrew’s was probably my sophomore year chemistry class, because I had a great teacher and the classes were always interesting. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: My favorite sports team at St. Andrew’s was my junior year soccer team. I enjoyed that season a lot because it was the peak of my athleticism for soccer. Our team made it to the state tournament and played a super-competitive game that went into double overtime. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: At St. Andrew’s, I always look forward to the Spring Fling and Maui Waui. These Free Days are always filled with activities for my friends and me to do. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Do not worry about what other people think of you. High school is too short to not do what you want to do.
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Tyler Ray Wood Middletown, Delaware My favorite class was Spanish class with Mr. Duffy, because he truly understands both the teaching and the learning process. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: My favorite sport was wrestling. The coaches believed in me and helped me achieve success I never thought I would be able to. FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE: My favorite place is the wrestling room. In that space I learned how to persevere and work hard for what I want. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED FROM AN SAS ADULT: Mr. Davis told me, “You get out what you put in.” While he was referring to wrestling, this statement has a carryover to every aspect of life. To achieve something, you have to be willing to put the work in. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
Jingxuan Zhuang AKA William Qingdao, China My favorite class was definitely English, especially during my junior and senior years. My teachers really inspired me to challenge myself by taking intellectual risks, and I learned just how far I can go by putting forth my full effort. HOW I’VE CHANGED: I’ve become more sure of who I am and who I want to work towards being in the future. THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE SAS: Gentle, intelligent, empathetic. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Take initiative and don’t wait for things to come to you, because you’ll end up missing out on lots of special opportunities.
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Nina Rose Zimmerman Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Without a doubt, my favorite class has been Ms. Pressman’s AS History: Histories of Hate. Ms. Pressman is an amazing teacher—her a passion for history is inspiring. To learn about American racism and the origins of antisemitism is uncomfortable and saddening. But ultimately, it is empowering to gain the tools to recognize injustice and racism. FAVORITE TEAM/CLUB/ACTIVITY: The SAS swim team is bonded like no other. We spend so many hours of the winter moving back and forth in the 25-yard space between two walls—and that's what makes the team special: those hours spent in the pool, cheering one another on and laughing between sets. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: My freshman year, the Noxontones and Andreans performed in the Academy of Music in Philadelphia. It was the most beautiful space. The whole evening felt like a dream. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
FAVORITE SAS MEMORY/TRADITION/PLACE:
Singing is how I recharge at St. Andrew’s, and the choir room is my favorite space to do that. I have so many memories laughing, belting, and dancing with my friends there. I also have an immeasurable love for the cornfields. I will never forget my Sunday runs with Emily B.
ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN & FUTURE STUDENTS:
Forget about what everyone else thinks. In this small, sometimes gossipy community, it is easy to get caught up in how others might perceive you, or your actions, clothes, how you spend your time, etc. But eventually I realized that people are more busy thinking about themselves. Taking a moment to pull away from the noise of other people’s opinions to ask yourself what YOU really want is something I wish I had started doing earlier.
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Robert Stewart Zurbuch AKA Stewart Middletown, Delaware My favorite class at SAS was Economics with Mr. Finch. It’s an exciting, challenging class that really explores the subconscious and conscious reasoning people put into the decisions they make and the importance of information in the construction of public policy. I would definitely recommend this class for anyone who is willing to do a bit of difficult math, as it has been one of my most eye-opening classes at SAS. FAVORITE ARTS EXPERIENCE: My favorite arts experience was my first time doing the play during freshman spring. It was my first time on the stage and was a chance for me to really get to know the upperclassmen. I struggled a lot freshman year to connect with other students, but the play helped me make connections with people I might otherwise not have talked to. HOW I'VE CHANGED: My time at St. Andrew’s has really taught me to value human connection and reach out to people who seem very different to me. Each conversation I’ve had with someone at St. Andrew’s has exposed me to new ideas and opinions that have expanded my point of view, and I look forward to using the communication skills I’ve picked up here in college and beyond. HOMETOWN:
FAVORITE CLASS:
Members of the Class of 2021 Not Represented in This Book
Gwendolyn Lloyd Negley Mellon
Carter Allen Vincent
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III FORM — FALL 2017
IV FORM — FALL 2018
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III FORM — FALL 2019
IV FORM — FALL 2020
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St. Andrew’s School www.standrews-de.org