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My Darlington Story: 'Slow Down and Appreciate Every Second' of the Darlington Experience
Oct 7, 2013 8:42 AM
By Anna Loyd '15 - '15
I joined the Darlington Community in 2010, with an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach and nervous thoughts continuously crossing my mind. Transitioning from a public school with 700+ students in my grade into a class with no more than 60 would be such a drastic change. I knew that close friendships had already been formed, and coming in my last year of middle school made it that much more terrifying.
But on the very first day, all my worries were forgotten at the door. I was greeted not only with friendly smiles, but with encouraging words and people who genuinely wanted to be a part of my success. I could not have been more excited to go back the next day. I felt so welcomed and appreciated right away, it was extremely comforting. I knew, though, that graduating into the Upper School would be no easy feat and adjustments would be frequent and frustrating.
Freshman year, I really started to find my way and who I am. I found friends who have continuously helped me grow and mature, sports such as track and cheerleading that push me, and subjects that interest me. While doing so though, Darlington really made me feel like no matter what, I would find the right fit for me. Whether it is joining the Chess Club, applying for a leadership position, or attempting to try a new sport, there is something for everyone. I appreciate all the opportunities that Darlington gives me and all students alike to blossom and find what suits them.
Now, in midst of my junior year in high school, I feel prepared and ready to start my adventure for finding the right college for me. It’s still an odd feeling knowing that in less than a year I will be a senior and only have one year left. College will be very different; yet I know I am at the best place possible to prepare and get ready for it.
Looking ahead, I hope that I made half as much of an impression at Darlington as it has on me. I will carry the memories, teachers and wisdom with me for the rest of my life. From reading and studying my all-time favorite book, "To Kill a Mockingbird" in my eighth grade English class, to competing in my first state track meet, and to having friends I will keep for a lifetime, Darlington has made a tremendous impact on my life. I am proud to say I attend Darlington, and can only hope that the time I have left slows down enough for me to enjoy and appreciate every second.
But on the very first day, all my worries were forgotten at the door. I was greeted not only with friendly smiles, but with encouraging words and people who genuinely wanted to be a part of my success. I could not have been more excited to go back the next day. I felt so welcomed and appreciated right away, it was extremely comforting. I knew, though, that graduating into the Upper School would be no easy feat and adjustments would be frequent and frustrating.
Freshman year, I really started to find my way and who I am. I found friends who have continuously helped me grow and mature, sports such as track and cheerleading that push me, and subjects that interest me. While doing so though, Darlington really made me feel like no matter what, I would find the right fit for me. Whether it is joining the Chess Club, applying for a leadership position, or attempting to try a new sport, there is something for everyone. I appreciate all the opportunities that Darlington gives me and all students alike to blossom and find what suits them.
Now, in midst of my junior year in high school, I feel prepared and ready to start my adventure for finding the right college for me. It’s still an odd feeling knowing that in less than a year I will be a senior and only have one year left. College will be very different; yet I know I am at the best place possible to prepare and get ready for it.
Looking ahead, I hope that I made half as much of an impression at Darlington as it has on me. I will carry the memories, teachers and wisdom with me for the rest of my life. From reading and studying my all-time favorite book, "To Kill a Mockingbird" in my eighth grade English class, to competing in my first state track meet, and to having friends I will keep for a lifetime, Darlington has made a tremendous impact on my life. I am proud to say I attend Darlington, and can only hope that the time I have left slows down enough for me to enjoy and appreciate every second.
