Admission

Meet our tour guides

Our tour guides, also known as Cicerones, will help you get to know us, student to student. They will be with you throughout your application process.

Click on the profiles below to read more about the students who will be leading you on your path to Walker’s and showing you around our beautiful campus.

Maya A. '26

Avon, CT

Maya A. '26

Day Student

Involvement: Peer Tutor, Student Ambassador, Head of African Drumming, Head of Bell Choir, Ethel Walker Athletic Council (EWAC), Varsity Soccer, Varsity Lacrosse, and JV Basketball

Hi, my name is Maya! I was admitted to Walker’s in the eighth grade and I am now a senior! I can honestly say that after being here for four years, Walker’s is truly an amazing place. At Walker’s you are able to make some of the most meaningful connections with peers and also faculty members. Whether it’s in the classroom, at a sport practice, or in a club, you will always find a supportive environment that allows students to make mistakes and pushes them to face challenges and work outside of their comfort zone. As a Cicerone I have the privilege of educating prospective families about a student’s experience at Walker’s and showing them all that this wonderful school has to offer!”

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Emilia A. '26

West Simsbury, CT

Emilia A. '26

Day Student

Involvement: Bell Choir, African Drumming, Varsity Swimming/Diving, and Head of Horizons.

Hi my name Emi and I’m a senior! I’ve been at Walker’s since 6th grade and I love being a Cicerone because I can share my experiences and stories about a school that I practically grew up at. I love being involved on campus and am a part of a lot of musical clubs. I also swim and dive and am co-head of Horizons, one of our community partnerships.

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Naomi B. '26

Deerfield, MA

Naomi B. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Advancement Ambassador, Basketball, Personal Fitness, Cicerone

“I became a Walker’s student in the fall of my sophomore year. Being a cicerone is important to me because I have enjoyed the time I have spent at Walker’s and I want to share that with prospective students and their families. One of the biggest things I aim to show prospective families about Walker’s, is how close knit our community is and how Walker’s feels like a family from the first time you step onto campus.”

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Ada B. '28

Winhall, Vermont

Ada B. '28

Boarding Student

Involvement: Riding, Spring Musical, Yoga

My name is Ada and I am class of 2028. I came to Walker’s my freshman year and am part of the riding team as well as the spring musical! I am currently a boarder in mountain view. Why I wanted to become a Cicerone was because I want to show prospective students how much Walker’s has positively impacted my life, and how much it could impact theirs as well!”

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Scarlett C. '27

Santa Cruz, California

Scarlett C. '27

Boarding Student

Involvement: Riding, Cross Country, and Swimming.

Im Scarlett and this is my 3rd year at Walker’s and now Im in 11th grade. I am so happy to be a Cicerone because Walker’s has given me so many opportunities not just to grow as a student, but also as a leader, a friend, and a member of a truly special community. Being a Cicerone allows me to give back by sharing that experience with others. If I can help even one person see how welcoming, empowering, and inspiring our community is, then I know I’ve made a difference.”

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Brooke D. '26

Rindge, NH

Brooke D. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Sun Dial Press Member, Swimming Team Manager, and Sun Spirit Head.

Hi! This is my fourth year at Walker’s. I am currently a senior and I joined Walker’s in my 9th grade year. Being a cicerone is very important to me because I enjoy having the opportunity to talk and get to know families. Sharing my Walker’s experiences and all the opportunities that are available to everyone excites me. Being able to share the community and family we have built here at Walker’s is one of my favorite things. I want to be able to show prospective families our community and the many different unique traditions that we have at Walker’s.”

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Ainsley D. '26

Petaluma, CA

Ainsley D. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Equestrian Team, Peer Tutoring, and Writing Fellows.

Hello, my name is Ainsley, and I joined Walker’s as a freshman. I’m proud to be part of the equestrian team and to serve as a Cicerone, helping prospective families experience the warmth and spirit of our community. Not only is Walker’s a safe haven for its students, but it’s also a place where we can thrive as learners. I hope visitors leave with a clear sense of how Walker’s encourages girls to pursue their passions, challenge themselves, and feel truly at home.”

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Lily D. '27

Farmington, CT

Lily D. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity soccer, Varsity Swim, Varsity Lacrosse, WAB, and Athlete Mental Health.

I arrived at Walker’s going into my freshman year. Being a Cicerone is important to be because I get to interact with possible incoming families and to show off all that Walkers has to offer. Also, being a leader on campus has enhanced my confidence and has allowed me the opportunity to be the best version of myself I can be.”

 

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Emma E. '26

Co-Head · North Granby, CT

Emma E. '26

Day Student

Involvement: Equestrian Team

“Hi! My name is Emma I started at Walker’s in sixth grade. I’m so excited to be giving tours to prospective students! While I was applying, having students give me the tours made me feel welcome and at home immediately, and I hope I can give that same feeling back.”

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Tiffany E. '26

East Orange, NJ

Tiffany E. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Proctor, Black Student Union, JV Basketball, Prom Representative, Student Advancement Ambassador, African Drumming

“Hi, I’m Tiffany and I came to Walker’s as a freshman boarding student. As a Cicerone who’s job is to help showcase the beauty of our school, it is my hope to achieve this goal. I hope that while touring all prospective students and their families, they begin to fall in love with Walker’s in the same way I have.”

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Charlotte E. '27

Holyoke, MA

Charlotte E. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Equestrian Co-Captain and Investment Co-Head.

“My name is Charlotte and I am starting my third year at Walker’s. I love being a Cicerone because I can share my thoughts on why Walker’s is a great fit for me and many others. It helped guide me into the confident and enthusiastic student I am today.”

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Judith F. '27

Canton, CT

Judith F. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Cross Country Captain, Junior Class Administrator, Model United Nations Head, My Sister’s Place CP Head, Students Demand Action Head, Fashion & Crochet Club Head, Student Advancement Ambassador, Cicerone, Northfield League, Jewish Student Union, LASO (Latinx and Hispanic Affinity), She Leads Justice CP, Lettuce Head Club, African Drumming, Ice Skating Club, Science Club, Archives Club, and Writing Fellow

Hello, I’m Judith! I’m a junior and a day student. I joined Walker’s last year as a sophomore, and even though I didn’t know anyone at first, I immediately felt at home in the school community. Since then, I’ve discovered so much about myself here! I became a Cicerone because I want prospective students to feel welcome and supported as they explore whether Walker’s is the right place for them. My goal is to highlight the school honestly while keeping your interests in mind. Most of all, I hope to be a friendly face you can easily talk to and ask questions. I can’t wait to meet you!

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Amelia F. '28

Simsbury, CT

Amelia F. '28

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity Soccer, Varsity Lacrosse, Winter Play, Arts, and Student Athlete Scholar.

Hello! My name is Amelia Forde and I’m in my sophomore year of high school. I started at The Ethel Walker School as a 7th grader, but because my mom Ms. Forde works here, I’ve been on campus since before I could walk. I’m also am a student athlete, and I participate in both sports and theater. I really love how welcoming Walkers’ Athletics are! The community overall is super welcoming. One of my favorite times of the week is morning meeting when we all get together to share each others successes.”

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Ella H. '26

Litchfield, CT

Ella H. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Student Body President, Proctor, Captain of the Ski Team, and Co-head of the Advancement Ambassadors

“Hi! I am Ella, I started at Walker’s as a 9th grader and quickly became immersed in the community. I became a Cicerone and it is truly on of my favorite leadership positions. I absolutely love to talk to perspective students, give tours, and be a resource to people navigating what school is best for them. I aim to give a very well rounded tour and try to learn everything possible about Walker’s to give you the best experience.”

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Charlie H. '26

Manhattan, NY

Charlie H. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Skiing, Softball, Cross Training

“Hi, I’m Charlie and I entered Walker’s as a sophomore. I was toured by a Cicerone who convinced me why Walker’s was the right choice. This encouraged me to want to make the same impact for people who are curious about Walker’s. I want to express to them why Walker’s is the right choice and the amazing experiences it gives you.”

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Shy H. '26

Windsor, CT

Shy H. '26

Day Student

Involvement: Black Student Union, Justice League, Prom Representative, Northfield League, JV Basketball

“Hi, welcome to Walker’s! I am Shy & I joined Walker’s my freshman year. I am excited to have you join our Walkers community. I would love to show you the vibrant personality & atmosphere of our campus. I look forward to seeing you soon!”

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Maddie H. '27

Simsbury, CT

Maddie H. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Soccer, Swim, Lacrosse, Orchestra, African Drumming, and Sax City.

I entered Walker’s in my sophomore year. I knew immediately that as soon as I entered Walker’s, I wanted to be a Cicerone. The love and sense of belonging I felt in my first couple of days, whether it was on the field, eating lunch with my new friends, or in class, was something I had never truly experienced. I want other individuals to feel the same sense of belonging that I feel here. Everyone deserves to experience a community like Walker’s, and I want to help them make the right choice for them. I want to show prospective families everything the Walker’s community has to offer, from rigorous academic courses, musical opportunities, sports facilities, and so much more!”

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Sophie L. '27

Windsor, CT

Sophie L. '27

Day Student

Involvement: "Swimming, Cross Country, Orchestra, ASC "Hi, I’m Sophie! I first entered Walker’s as an eighth-grader. Trying to understand a community in an hour tour can be difficult. As a Cicerone, I want to give you everything you need from a student’s perspective to make that process easier. Always feel free to ask questions during your tour!"
What is your favorite class and why?
I love English because it’s very discussion based. This allows me to not only learn from my teacher but also from the perspectives of my peers. The seats are also arranged so that the speaker is always visible. This way, everyone can be heard.
What is a unique experience you've had at Walker's that you didn't think you'd be involved in when arriving at Walker's?
I definitely never thought that I’d be able to take a poker course. Every year, the entire school participates in Lacuna. Lacuna is a week long break from our standard classes. Instead, seniors teach their own courses of life skills. Last year I was fortunate enough to learn penny poker.
What is your favorite part of your typical day at Walker's? What do you look forward to every day?
My favorite part of the day is spending time with my advisor. She’s the wisest, funniest person I know and I learn something new each time I see her. (Plus she gives really great hugs.)

Joon M. '26

Fairfield, CT

Joon M. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Volleyball, Proctor, Asian Student Collective

“Hi, I’m Joon and I came to Walker’s in 9th grade and have been boarding since. Being a Cicerone means being someone families can remember from Walker’s. Inviting people into and sharing Walker’s is a privilege and I enjoy meeting all the new families from all around the world. I also feel like Admission is a lot easier from a student’s standpoint when people who are your age and understand you are touring and talking with you. It feels like a lot less pressure. I hope I can rightfully show the joy and sisterhood that Walker’s has to offer to our prospective students.”

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Perlin M. '26

Co-Head · New London, NH

Perlin M. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Equestrian, Ski Racing, Jewish Student Union, African Drumming, Writing Fellows

“Hi! My name is Perlin, I am in the class of 2026. I came to Walker’s in 9th grade. Since the day I toured campus, I knew that I wanted to be a student ambassador or “Cicerone.” Being a Cicerone is important to me because I want to advertise the parts of my school that I love most which is also why I am one of the Co-Heads of the Cicerone Society. My passion for the school is something I pride myself in and want to share with others.”

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Kelty M. '26

Lakewood, CO

Kelty M. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Equestrian Team Captain, Writing Fellows

“I left home to come to Walker’s for my freshman year of high school and have been a Cicerone since sophomore year. I have wanted to be a Cicerone since my prospective student tour here. I think it is so important for prospective families to know how much growth can happen at Walker’s. Living in the dorms, being on any team, having the chance to join clubs and committees and be active in their spirit groups (GO SUNS!) gives students the opportunities to find family outside of home. I have not been able to find a community this strong and empowering anywhere else.”

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Isla M. '26

Brooklyn, NY

Isla M. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Equestrian, Community Partnership Head, Cicerone

“I entered Walker’s my sophomore year and had previously attended a public school in NYC. Walker’s was a big change for me, and although sometimes I felt uncomfortable, I ended up creating a community that helped me feel supported and welcomed. I think Cicerone’s are a really valuable aspect of the school because it is nice to connect with people that you relate to and learn about their experiences at Walker’s. I hope to show prospective students and their families a little bit of what the transition into a new school can look and feel like, and how to help navigate the changes.”

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Pe'yton M. '27

Bloomfield, CT

Pe'yton M. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Co-Head of BSU, Varsity Field Hockey, Varsity Lacrosse, Northfield League Member, Justice League Member, Athlete Mental Health Club Member, and Varsity Basketball Manager.

Hi! My name is Pe’yton McLeish, and I’m in the class of 2027. I came to Walker’s as a freshman, and from the moment I toured campus, I knew I wanted to be a Cicerone. I love showing people the parts of our school that make it special—from the coolest hangout spots to hidden gems around campus. Being a Cicerone lets me share my excitement for Walker’s with others, and I can’t wait to help new students feel welcome and inspired!”

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Emma M. '27

Simsbury, CT

Emma M. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity Soccer, Varsity Lacrosse, Winter Yoga, Investment Club, and Northfield League Member.

Hi! My name is Emma Mazur. I am a junior and this is my third year at Walker’s. I became a Cicerone so that I can make an impact on this community by creating a welcoming environment for current and perspective students. I believe that Cicerones should represent the community and show exactly how friendly Walker’s truly is.”

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Liv O. '26

West Hartford, CT

Liv O. '26

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity Soccer, The Musical, Basketball, Student Government, Grapes, African Drumming, Drum Core, Rock Band

“My name is Liv! I am a Cicerone because I love talking about Walker’s and meeting new people. I love to show prospective students how normal it is to be engaged in school life and why I choose to participate in the the things I do. I think it is most important for families to see how the Walker’s community engages with each other. When I first toured, the students and their kindness stood out to me the most and I want others to have that same feeling!”

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Gigi P. '26

Bristol, CT

Gigi P. '26

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity Basketball, Varsity Soccer, and Student Athlete Mental Health Club

My name is Gisselle Peña but I go by Gigi. I joined Walker’s in 2023 as a sophomore and I’m now a senior! Being a Cicerone is very important to be because I get to help show perspective students and family around the beautiful campus that many people here call home.

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Maggie P. '27

West Simsbury, Connecticut

Maggie P. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Student Advancement Ambassador, Co-head of the Groutfit’s Club, and the head of our Anti-Racism Alliance on campus. I also swim in the winter and will play tennis in the spring!

I came to Walker’s as a freshman and was nervous to enter a brand new high school, but I quickly learned that Walker’s was my new home (even though I am a day student!). I hope that as a Cicerone, I can show prospective families how tight-knit our community is and how many opportunities open up as a student here.”

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Ayden R. '26

Manchester, CT

Ayden R. '26

Day Student

Involvement: EWAC, Varsity Soccer,  JV Basketball, Varsity Softball, Bell Choir, and African Drumming.

Hi, my name is Ayden and I am a senior! I play soccer, basketball and softball. I am also a part of EWAC, which is our athletic council on campus. I love being a cicerone because I get to talk about the school that has grown to be my second home. The people here mean so much to me and I love giving back to a community who has given so much to me.

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Livi S. '26

Bolton, MA

Livi S. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Equestrian Team and Captain of JV Soccer Team 

Hi I’m Livi and I came to Walker’s in 2022 my freshman year. I’m now a senior which is so crazy! Being a Cicerone is so important to me because touring a school can change a lot of someone’s opinion. I want everyone who tours to feel the same enthusiasm and love for the school I do. I want everyone to see why being a Walker’s girl is the best. (Also go suns!)

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Emily S. '26

Farmington, CT

Emily S. '26

Day Student

Involvement: EWAC, Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Orchestra, African Drumming

I entered Walker’s last year as a Junior. I love being a Cicerone because I get to share my Walker’s experience to the outside community. I love showing prospective families the family culture that is built here, and the great benefits of an all-girls school.”

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Abby S. '27

Granby, CT

Abby S. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity Field Hockey, Varsity Basketball, Varsity Lacrosse, Co-Head of Special Olympics Basketball, and African Drumming.

Hi! My name is Abby Spencer. I am a junior day student from Granby, CT, and I’ve been at Walker’s since my freshman year. I am a member of varsity field hockey, varsity basketball, and varsity lacrosse. I am also a co-head of the Community Partnership Special Olympics Basketball program, where we play basketball with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. In my free time, I love spending time with my friends and family, playing with my dogs, baking, cleaning, and playing basketball. I think being a Cicerone is important because it allows me to share my love for Walker’s and help prospective families feel welcomed and informed. When families visit, my goal is to show them how Walker’s is a supportive, empowering community where every student can grow, be challenged, truly be themselves, and feel at home.”

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Maeve S. '27

West Simsbury, CT

Maeve S. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Varsity Volleyball, Varsity Swim, Varsity Softball, Weekend Activities Rep, African Drumming, and DECA

Hi! My name is Maeve Sullivan, and I am a junior day student from West Simsbury. I joined the Walker’s community as a freshman. Being a Cicerone is important because they get to share their love for the community with prospective families. When I toured Walker’s, the welcome I received drew me to the school, and I love to return the favor to others. I would love to show all prospective families my favorite parts of our beautiful campus.”

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Candy T. '26

Shanghai, China

Candy T. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Theater, Dance, Choir Grapes, Drama Club, Rock Band, EWAC,  and Dance Club

I came to Walker’s my sophomore year coming from my hometown that is 16 hours flight distance from here. This is such a welcoming, diverse, and supportive community that allows students to explore themselves and grow. I want to show prospective families how much people can do at this school and how this place will be the second home.”

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Piper T. '26

Hinesburg, VT

Piper T. '26

Boarding Student

Involvement: Proctor in Mountain View Hour, Riding, Orchestra, Bell Choir, Peer Tutor, and Community Partnership Head.

Hi, my name is Piper! I joined Walker’s in 9th grade, and I’m a proud sun! Cicerones were a vital part of my decision to come to Walker’s. I want to give back the welcoming and community feeling I experienced when touring, and to share my favorite parts of our incredible campus. The Cicerone program is important because student-to-student connection is so valuable, and being able to share my experiences means prospective students get the best view of Walker’s possible.”

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Liesel T. '27

Simsbury, CT

Liesel T. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Drama Club Head, Theatre (Plays and Musicals), Writing Fellow, Community Partnership Head (ENGin), Northfield League Member, and currently doing fall dance

I entered Walker’s in 6th grade, but I have lived on campus in faculty housing since 4th grade. My parents are Dr. Thacker and Ms. Harris-Thacker, and my sister graduated class of ’24. I love being a Cicerone because I have a unique experience when it comes to Walker’s students, given that when I started school here I knew almost everyone and I babysat some of the faculty kids (I still do, and I also cat-sit!). With my experience, I can talk about campus life pretty well and I can bring to the conversation things my parents have talked about with me, like community partnerships, the archives, and aspects of our community that they love. I aim to show perspective families that Walker’s is a second home, and that our community is incredible. When I was a perspective student, I was really scared to try new things and go to an all-girls school, because I had grown up attending public schools my whole life. Coming to Walker’s made me step outside my comfort zone, and helped me try new things that I would never have if I went to school anywhere else. Coming to Walker’s was my first time trying theatre, and now it’s a core part of my identity.”

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Morgan T. '27

Water Mill, NY

Morgan T. '27

Boarding Student

Fiona V. '27

Avon, CT

Fiona V. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Dance and Theater

“I entered Walker’s in 7th grade. Being a Cicerone is really important because in being one, you get to have a very big impact on the students applying and get to see them really become interested in The School on their tour. It’s really one of the highlights being a Cicerone!”

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Lily W. '27

Tolland, Connecticut

Lily W. '27

Day Student

Involvement: Cross Country, Basketball, Softball, Student Athlete Mental Health Club, Bell Choir, Head of Faith and Foundations Club, Co-Head of Special Olympics Basketball, EWAC, Writing Fellow.

Hi! My name is Lily, and I joined Walker’s as a ninth grader after touring the school and realizing it was a place where I could grow into the best version of myself. Being a Cicerone is important because we get to show prospective families what Walker’s is all about and highlight all the great opportunities it offers. The campus is a big deciding factor in choosing a school, and since our campus is already amazing, all we need to do is present it in a welcoming and positive way. I aim to show prospective families all the unique aspects that make Walker’s so special, such as the opportunities, the friendly people, and the dedicated teachers and coaches.”

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Sophia X. '26

New Territories, Hong Kong

Sophia X. '26

Boarding Student

Violet Z. '26

Cambridge, NY

Violet Z. '26

Boarding Student

Maggie Z. '27

Shanghai, China

Maggie Z. '27

Boarding Student

Involvement: Orchestra, Chamber, Squash, Volleyball, Riding, Theater, ASC

“Hi, I’m Maggie. I entered Walker’s as a freshman. I love having conversations with people and make friends with them. I’m a flute player and a squash player, and I truly enjoy participating and have been persisting in these activities for a long time. Being a cicerone is so important for me and I can’t wait to introduce Walker’s to you and share my amazing life here at The School!”

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