The Class of 2020

Highlight of your time at Nightingale:
Touring in South Africa with Chamber Chorus! I loved learning and performing the music of such a beautiful country while learning it's story. I will never forget that trip and the memories I made there.

What you would tell your younger Nightingale self:
To follow her passion and instincts.

How have truth, friendship, or loyalty been a part of your time at Nightingale?
The friendships I've formed at Nightingale are one of my most treasured takeaways. I am certain that the bonds I've made within the blue doors will last.

How has Nightingale educated both your heart and your mind?
Nightingale has given me an incredible education and countless opportunities to learn and grow. This institution has taught me to lean into discomfort, to stand up for myself and others, and how to be an effective leader. Nightingale has made me into the person I am so proud of today.

Favorite Quote/Personal Motto:"I hope I made you smile, that's all I've ever wanted."
—AJR

Your message to the Nightingale Class of 2020:
Make a positive impact on the world! No matter what you do, find ways to make a difference and to be a pioneer.

Any final, parting words?
I've only been here four years and it feels like a lifetime. This community will forever have a special place in my heart.

What you would tell your younger Nightingale self:
Cherish the time you have and don’t take anything for granted. Also, learn to let loose and have fun!

How have truth, friendship, or loyalty been a part of your time at Nightingale?
Friendship— I come to school every day and I’m surrounded by my friends. I spend all day with them laughing in the halls and working on projects for classes. Nightingale is not Nightingale without my friends.

How has Nightingale educated both your heart and your mind?
I have overall developed so much at Nightingale. Yes, of course I have an amazing education, but I’m also a strong minded and passionate person.

Favorite Quote/Personal Motto:
"Everything happens for a reason"

Your message to the Nightingale Class of 2020:
We are anything but an ordinary class and we are really seeing that come to fruition right now! You are some of the smartest, kindest, funniest, and most passionate people I know! So, thank you to everyone who made everyday brighter and happier! I know I can always count on you all to make me cackle uncontrollably!

Highlight of your time at Nightingale:
My Nightingale highlight reel includes memories of laughter on long bus rides to field trips, nights where I can't fall asleep because the Rattlin' Bog song just keeps playing in my head, hours spent in the darkroom, and every time I stand on the Nightingale stage for a theater, dance, or music performance. It includes virtual paper plate awards with my 7th grade peer group, History DBQs that absolutely did not go as expected, and laughter with friends in the third floor hallway.

What you would tell your younger Nightingale self:
You're going to fall a few times, you're going to embarrass yourself a lot, you're going to say some things you wish you didn't, and there are some things that you will look back on for years to come and wish you said. But, right now, despite a global pandemic and missing the last semester of my senior year, I'm pretty happy. So, please keep making those mistakes and trying again and awkwardly asking people if they will be your friend because now I really appreciate it. Best of luck on your journey, kid, I'll be waiting for you at the finish line.

Favorite Quote/Personal Motto:
"Beginnings are usually scary and endings are usually sad, but it's everything in between that makes it all worth living." -Bob Marley

Your message to the Nightingale Class of 2020:
"You say, what if things start changing?I say, we'll be changing with themWe'll just sing a different melodyAnd dance at different rhythmYou say, what if I give up?I say, that is one thing that I'll never let you do...The world will always be thereAnd so will I"
—Ben Platt
What kind of musician would I be if I didn't quote a musician? I've been listening to this song on repeat for the last few days because I think it really relates to our lives right now. Things are starting to change and so are we. Despite all of this, I know that I have a group of people who will always be there. So, thank you for being there through the bumps and bruises and celebrations and accomplishments. I will never be more than a phone call away so, go take on the world, my friends. I will forever be cheering you on!"