Cecilia ’26
College/School Attending This Fall: Wesleyan University
Major/Area of Interest: Biology and Sociology (Pre-Med)
Years at Shipley: 4
Activities and Positions Held:
Volleyball (Co-Captain), Black Student Union (Co-President), SPARC (Co-Resident), Belonging and Connection Committee (Co-Head), Admissions Ambassador, Shipley Writing Center, Athletic Training
Who was your most influential teacher and why?
My most influential teacher during my time at Shipley was Mr. Frankel. In the classroom, his classes were light and fun (I always looked forward to the joke of the day!). He also ensured that all his students were in a position to succeed. Outside of the classroom, he did a wonderful job of showing up to school events such as Culture Fest or a simple sports game. Mr. Frankel led by example, and that's something that has really stuck with me during my time at Shipley.
What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class was my Comparative Anatomy and Neuroscience class. This class was perfect for me, because it really played to my future interests. It also encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, especially during our pig dissection. Mr. Clement also had a way of making the class so engaging and exciting.
What was your most memorable experience at Shipley?
My most memorable experience without a doubt was Super Saturday. The school spirit at this event was unmatched. As someone who played during Super Saturday, I can say that the energy was electric, and the strength that community support gave is like no other.
What does Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing mean to you?
To me, I have always seen "Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing" as an action-reaction pair. On one side, we should always gather the strength to try new things even when they seem hard or impossible. When we do this, we should hope that others receive our actions with kindness and understanding, even if these actions are imperfect. In having this courage and hoping for this grace, we too should readily extend grace to others when they perform a courageous act.
How has Shipley encouraged you to take risks?
As someone who was always more introverted and reserved, taking risks and stepping out of my comfort zone were always extremely difficult tasks. However, during my time at Shipley, I found myself met with such support and encouragement from the get-go, which really boosted my confidence and allowed me the opportunities to put myself out there. At Shipley, it seemed like everyone was rooting for you, and I learned that even if I failed, there were always people ready to help me try again.
Please write a short reflection on your time at Shipley and what it meant to you.
In one word, my time at Shipley was simply transformative. The support system and close-knit community led me to grow into the truest version of myself. I learned such important lessons inside and outside the classroom that prepared me to explore the world with curiosity, fervor, and a deep appreciation of all that's around me.