Abby

Why I chose Walker’s: There was a feeling that I got here that I never felt at any of the other places I applied to. Even from just taking a tour and shadowing some classes, I could tell that the people here were amazing, the atmosphere was warm and accepting, and that Walker's was exactly the place for me!

Favorite Class 9th grade physics with Mrs. Harrington. I want to go into engineering when I get to college, and this is the class that really gave me that solid idea in the first place! I was challenged in math and science probably for the first time ever, and I learned a ton.

Leadership positions: I am an Old Girl, a Cicerone (student tour guide), I was 10th grade class president and I'm on the class fundraising committee this year. I'm also a peer tutor and swim team captain.

Clubs/extracurricular activities: I participate in the Justice League, the chamber orchestra as well as the clarinet ensemble, Habitat for Humanity, and French club.

Sports: I play field hockey, swimming, and lacrosse.

Something new I’ve tried at Walker’s: Since we're required to participate in all three seasons of sports and I had never played a spring sport until Walker's, I decided to try lacrosse. It was scary being someone on the team who had never played, but it was a blast, I caught on quickly, and now I am on the Varsity team!

Favorite spot on campus: That would have to be the library. It is a great place to go to de-stress, chill with friends (quietly), or study! I find myself there the vast majority of my free blocks.

Favorite food/meal in Abra’s Dining Hall: I absolutely LOVE the sushi bar they make for us once a year. It tastes like the real deal that you can order in restaurants!

Future plans/goals: I want to become an Engineer. Right now, Biomedical Engineering is looking really cool, but who knows, my plans could change! This is a field which is lacking in women, but I want to defy that male norm and make my gender proud!

How being at Walker’s has changed me: Before Walker's, I was very closed. I was afraid to approach people and reach out to them; there was always that worry that the person I liked wouldn't like me back or would reject and judge me. Over my time here, I have learned that if I have an interest in getting to know someone, they probably share that interest right back, and that it never hurts to say a friendly "hi" to a girl I don't know very well.

The most important/valuable thing I’ve learned at Walker’s: Just go for it! There is NEVER a downside to trying new things, taking new leaps, and being experimental. Don't be afraid of looking stupid when you try out a new sport or make that speech for class president, and it is never bad to be a nerd or to make a smart comment in class. Above all, I have learned that being myself is absolutely the best way to be!

Walker’s in three words: Compassionate, fun, intellectual

Walker's Centennial

Meet Allie, '13