Boarding #SeniorSpotlight: Sydnee Barndt
By Maddie Chastain - Faculty
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 Sydnee Barndt, a four-year boarding student from Eagle River, Alaska, who has served as head prefect of Thornwood House for the past two years.
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
Memories, laughs and fun
What song reminds you of high school?
“Good Old Days” - Macklemore
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
“Grey’s Anatomy”
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Blue Fin
What house are you a member of?
Thornwood House
What are you involved in at Darlington?
I have been a part of the Soccer Academy for four years and captain two of those years. I have also been a Thornwood House dorm leader for three years with two of those years being head prefect. I am also a part of the Student Activities Committee (SAC).
If you play sports, who is your favorite coach and why?
I play for the Soccer Academy and my favorite coach has been Coach Becks my freshman year. She pushed me on and off the field to be better and do better.
What's your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is either the lake, the fields, or THORNWOOD!!!
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teachers have been the Luitwielers. Mrs. Luitwieler is very helpful and fun to talk to, and Mr. Luitwieler is also very helpful. I also really love all the duty staff in T-Wood, especially Mrs. Bruce. Mrs. Bruce is the best head of house and has been important to me these past few years!
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
I love how Darlington quickly became a home away from home for me. It is such a welcoming and supportive community. I’ve enjoyed all of my time here; I have met some of my life best friends and made very special connections that I will cherish forever!
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
I would say the overall boarding experience is something that is unique to Darlington and that you would not find at most other high schools. RUMPUS is also such a fun and unique atmosphere to be a part of, and I’ve made some of my best memories from it.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
I have grown in so many ways since coming to Dar. When I first came here, I was very shy and awkward. While I might still be a bit awkward, I do believe through the encouraging and welcoming community Darlington has exposed me to, I have gained the confidence to come out of my shell and step out of my comfort zone daily to fully emerge myself in all the great opportunities and experiences Dar has to offer.
What is your dream job?
I would love to be a dentist somewhere close to a beach!
If you have already committed to a college, please let us know which one you will be attending.
I am committed to play soccer and study at Wingate University.
Click here to see more #SeniorSpotlights from the Class of 2024!
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.