Day #SeniorSpotlight: Grant Sikes
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 Grant Sikes, a 10-year day student from Rome and leader for Summerbell House who has taken full advantage of getting involved in the dorms as a day student.
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
My second home.
What song reminds you of high school?
“It Ain't Over 'Till It's Over” - Lenny Kravitz
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
“Star Wars: The Clone Wars”
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Las Palmas
What house are you a member of?
Summerbell
What are you involved in at Darlington?
Summerbell House leader, tennis (team captain), Senior Ventures: Darlington Athletics Instagram (co- founder)
If you play sports, who is your favorite coach and why?
Reid Owens. He has been a great mentor throughout my high school tennis career. He is a great competitor and always pushes me to be the best player and person I can be. Although he is still fairly new to tennis, the mental aspects of his coaching style set him apart from many experienced coaches. Without Coach Owens, I could not have accomplished as much as I have during high school.
What's your favorite place on campus and why?
Summerbell House. I acknowledge I am a day student; however, all of the leadership opportunities I have had in the dorms have brought me closer to a part of Darlington not not many people see. For most day students, getting to know the dorm kids may seem like a challenge, but for the past three years I have been immersed in the lifestyle that not many people get the chance to see. Even though it is only for two to three days a week, I feel like I have connected with most of the guys in Summerbell. It has only made my time at Darlington more interesting.
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher is my mom, Ms. Sikes. She pays for my gas occasionally and feeds me. Also, Mr. Clark is another one of my favorites. Starting freshman year, he used to tie my bow tie every Thursday before school. Although I never had him as a teacher, I feel that he has been very impactful, whether it was talking with him on my duty nights in the dorms, fantasy football, or receiving college advice. Mr. Clark is someone I can be myself around.
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
The atmosphere centered around sports.
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
RUMPUS. Every year, RUMPUS allows me to release my competitiveness completely. I love the team aspect of it and although it is a very stressful time, I also find myself more relaxed because it distracts me from the workload of school.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
I have grown more confident in myself because I have finally surrounded myself with really good friends. All of my friends are very close and we all support each other, but also keep each other in line.
What is your dream job?
Not sure. Something that involves people.
Click here to see more #SeniorSpotlights from the Class of 2023!
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.
