A Darlington student is made up of many things. None of which is average. We help our students develop their interests, passions and pursuits, because we believe every individual has something to contribute. We also believe that only when you're 100% you, are you 100% Darlington.
Here at Darlington, every student’s path is different. We think that's a good thing.
Let’s get to know Kaya Nadu, a six-year day student from Armuchee, Ga., who serves as photo editor for the Jabberwokk yearbook.
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
Opportunity, Independence, Growth
What song reminds you of high school?
"Never Grow Up” - Taylor Swift
I've listened to this song a lot throughout high school and each time it reminds me to appreciate the stage of life I'm in right now. This is such a unique stage of life and although sometimes it's annoying to be too young for certain things and too old for others, it just makes this time so much more special.
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
I'm not a big TV watcher, but “Gilmore Girls” and “Criminal Minds” are always comforting shows to go back to.
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Las Palmas
What house are you a member of?
Regester House
What are you involved in?
Throughout the years, I've been involved in tons of things, but here is what I'm involved in senior year: lacrosse, Senior Ventures, photo editor for the Jabberwokk, Servant Leadership Committee, HOSA, Advancement Ambassadors, Spanish Club, and Arts Council. I'm also on a .22 Rifle Team through 4H.
If you play sports, who is your favorite coach and why?
I would say the coach who probably had the biggest impact on me at Darlington was Coach Rush. I played basketball for her for three years and I think she played a huge role in the player and teammate I am today. She was very intentional about the way she coached, and she had clear standards for us and held us all accountable. One thing she always used to tell us was to "Be where your feet are." This quote stuck with me since then and I think about it often. It was such a good reminder on and off the court to be present in the moment and pour into where you are, not where your head is, or where you'd rather be.
If you are involved in fine arts, what is your favorite activity and why?
My favorite thing in communication arts is our trip to New York City every spring to attend the Columbia Scholastic Press Association conference. I have so many fun memories from these trips with both my classmates and our chaperones. We get to go the conference during the day, then have fun evenings out to Broadway shows, nice restaurants, skyline observatories, museums, and more. Also, most of the big ideas I got to further develop our photography department came from top schools at this conference.
What's your favorite place on campus and why?
My favorite spots on campus are the library and the seating around the lake. The library windows let in so much light, and since it's been renovated, it's so peaceful and a great place to connect. And I always love to go chat with Ms. West in there! The lakeside is so beautiful and I love to sit by the lake when it's warm out and all the flowers are blooming.
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
I wish I could say a little about each of them! Darlington is truly blessed with a great set of faculty, and all of my teachers have been amazing. However, if I had to choose, I'd probably say Ms. West and Mr. Pender for non-academic and Mr. Hudson and Mr. Cox for academics. Ms. West and Mr. Pender are a dynamic duo and I appreciate all of their support, advice, teaching and more throughout high school. Mr. Hudson is so funny and he truly makes every class fun and entertaining, I've probably laughed more in his classes than any other class. Mr. Cox is always a great teacher to chat with and we always have interesting discussions in his class. He's also a great storyteller!
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
My favorite thing about Darlington is the independence they give us. I think having free periods and a more open schedule that isn't just classes has really helped prepare me for the future.
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
Although this is a basic answer, getting to meet people from all over the world as a high-schooler definitely isn't a common experience. I have learned so much about other cultures, religions and so many other things. Nothing compares to learning from my classmates; it’s such a unique thing to not only learn about other cultures, but to watch your friends’ experiences and what they have to share.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
I think I've definitely become more social and confident. When I came to Darlington, I was shy and would really only talk to my friends. Now, I think I could pretty much talk to anyone about pretty much anything, and I would say I have a healthy nervousness about speaking in front of people.
What is your dream job?
A doctor - I really like the orthopedics, internal medicine, and neurology specialities.
Click here to see more #SeniorSpotlights from the Class of 2026!
Find out how you can be 100% Darlington, too, by requesting a personal campus tour at www.darlingtonschool.org/visit or contacting admission@darlingtonschool.org.
