In planning for a photo feature that will appear in the next issue of Darlington Magazine, I decided to interview members of this year's senior class to learn more about their unique Darlington experiences and see what they value most.
I received many wonderful responses and was impressed that these bright, young students are already able to appreciate Darlington and the sacrifices made by their families to ensure that they are prepared for college and beyond. I thought I'd share one of our graduates' responses with you now.
Below, you will hear from Emily Thurmond ('14) of Rome, Ga., who will attend Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, Ga., this fall. Enjoy her responses and stay tuned for more from the Class of 2014 in the next Darlington Magazine!
What year did you come to Darlington?
I came to Darlington in the 4th grade
What does Darlington mean to you?
Darlington has played a significant role in developing me as a person both in and out of the classroom. It provided me with opportunities that I couldn't get anywhere else and the support I needed to keep going. The Darlington Community has become my family over the years and helped shape me into the young woman I am today.
Which teachers or staff members at Darlington have impacted you most and how?
I have had many wonderful teachers and staff that have played a huge role in my Darlington experience. It all started with the late Mrs. Lola Bradshaw and then was followed by Mrs. Lisa Goldin and Coach Chad Woods. I know each of these people has had a huge effect on every student that walked through their doors. Darlington faculty are all special because they want to be there and they want to see you succeed. You don't find that at every high school.
What are your plans this fall? Do you feel well prepared -- how so?
I plan on going to GCSU in the fall and studying Music Therapy. Darlington has instilled in me a strong work ethic, time management, and confidence in the classroom.
What is something you learned outside of the classroom at Darlington?
I have learned many things from Darlington. I have learned who I am as a person as well as how to manage time. It had taught me to be a leader and to stand up for what I believe in. Darlington as instilled in me a confidence and sense of pride that you cannot gain elsewhere.
What will you miss most about Darlington?
The beautiful campus and sense of community.
What are some of the things you appreciate most about Darlington?
I appreciate how every teacher really cares about every student. At Darlington, I'm not a number. I have had a teacher meet me at 7 a.m. every morning to help me understand the material. They also give you opportunities outside of the classroom to grow and thrive. Everyone at Darlington wants to see you succeed and will push you to be the best you can.
How did Darlington help you become the person you are today?
Darlington forced me to step out of my comfort zone and become a leader. I was provided so many wonderful opportunities in order to grow. Both on the field and in the classroom, you are challenged and pushed to be the best you can. As a three-sport varsity athlete and a member of Concert Choir, The Darlingtones, and many other leadership groups, I was spread out across the board, but Darlington made it possible for me to accomplish all I wanted.
