What is the most influential book you have read besides the Bible? Why?
One of the most influential books I have read recently would definitely be The Diving Bell and the Butterfly which was first lent to me by Mr. Southwick. I loved the poetic form of this novel and how the entirety of the book spoke of discovering beauty in the mundane or even in the bleakest of circumstances.
What is your favorite or funniest moment at Geneva?
Some of my most cherished Geneva memories occurred on the boardwalk. As soon as the weather become warm enough for us to acquire some vitamin D, we would spend almost every single study hall since sophomore year lounging in the sun outside our classroom. This study hall sunbathing became such a normal everyday occurrence. I had many interesting conversations with students and teachers as I sat on that boardwalk. I can’t even recall the amount of interesting conversations my friends and I overheard while soaking up that Geneva sun.
What will you miss most when you leave Geneva?
I will miss the boardwalk most. I will miss the feeling of knowing that no matter what door I stop next to on the boardwalk, I would be stopping next to a friend, a mentor and someone who cares about me immensely. Only at Geneva can a study hall spent sitting outside on the boardwalk turn into some of the most cherished conversations I’ve been a part of regarding my faith.
Who has influenced you most while at Geneva? How?
Mr. Southwick has been one of my most influential teachers. I signed up for Mr. Southwick’s creative writing class sophomore year along with some of my friends. In one seemingly simple class Mr. Southwick helped to reinstall my love for writing and instilled in me a new perspective on the importance of written words.
What does being a Geneva student mean to you?
Being a Geneva student means being equipped with knowledge on how to defend as well as incorporate aspects of my faith into everything I say, do or believe. As a student at Geneva I look forward to difficult discussions with my peers and teachers that encourage me to grow not only intellectually but spiritually as well.
How would you encourage a Geneva kindergartener to persevere in school?
Geneva can be challenging and I think everyone who attends this school is aware of that. But it is the challenges at Geneva that make it so special. It’s having those tough discussions with a teacher or a peer that really sets Geneva apart and our community apart. I would encourage any kindergartner to strive to be challenged and embrace the trials that can come with our education because that’s where the real magic of Geneva occurs.
What about Geneva do you hope never changes?
I hope Geneva’s community never changes. Having been a part of this community since kindergarten I remember even then realizing that something about Geneva made it feel different. It was the overwhelming love I felt from so many members of the community who, as I grew, were able to grow alongside me in friendship and faith.