The Class of 2020

What would you tell your younger Nightingale self:
I spent a portion of these past four years looking forward to the moments I would share with my classmates as we grew together. However, now some of these memories cannot be made in the same way we had hoped. If there was one thing I could tell my younger self, I would be to cherish every moment because high school zooms by and to take lots of photos while you're at it!

How have truth, friendship and loyalty been a part of your time at Nightingale?
Throughout my time at Nightingale, I've lived in the moment and tried on many hats. At times the number of hats I was wearing was intimidating, but it didn't stop me from trying to accomplish all I took on. I initially tried to take it all on alone, but I soon learned that my family within the Blue Doors was there to support me and would continue to even after we part.

Your message to the Nightingale Class of 2020:
These last four years have meant the world to me. As we move on to the next phases of our lives, I will take my Nightingale family with me wherever I go.

Highlight of your time at Nightingale:
Giving back to my community in small and large ways: being a tour guide, participating in student admission panels for prospective Lower School parents, and bringing my best to Nightingale every day.

What would you tell your younger Nightingale self:
Some way, some how you will make it through. Don't spend time thinking about how. Just do it. Be present in the process of growing up and coming into yourself, it is one of the best gifts we've been given. Follow your heart and be unafraid of failure.

How have truth, friendship and loyalty been a part of your time at Nightingale?
I have learned more about truth, friendship, and loyalty from Nightingale than any other people or places I have been. Nightingale panted the seeds to grow my strongest friendships, teach me the value of truth, and what being loyal really means. I will forever be grateful for these qualities Nightingale has instilled in me.

How has Nightingale educated your heart and mind?
I have grown psychologically the same if not more than I have academically at Nightingale. A survivor, Nightingale has been a part of me since I was 6 yeas old. The experiences I have created and relationships I have built within the Blue Doors are what has shaped me into the person I am today.

Favorite quote/personal motto:
Fake till you make it

Your message to the Nightingale Class of 2020:
To the people who have made me who I am today-- thank you for being the most passionate, driven, empathetic, curious, vivacious group of people I know. You all fill everything you do with light. Never lose it. I feel lucky every day knowing I get to be a member of this one of a kind family.

Highlight of your time at Nightingale:
The best nap I ever took was in the senior lounge on the blue couch with Amina, Maddy, and Bailes. We had just come back to school after marching at the climate strike and we were waiting to speak at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony later that evening. We were so exhausted we fell asleep in the lounge and it was more comfortable than being in my own bed.

What would you tell your younger Nightingale self:
Cherish every moment because you will never again be surrounded by such a close, supportive community. Take this time to explore yourself, and others. Know that these people have your back no matter what.

How have truth, friendship and loyalty been a part of your time at Nightingale?
I do not lie. My friends are my family, and I trust them with my life.

How has Nightingale educated your heart and mind?

It is the tools I’ve learned at Nightingale that will allow me to go out into this world as a confident woman. I know what love and friendship looks like and I know what respect and integrity are because I was taught each of these values through my relationships and education at Nightingale.

Favorite quote/personal motto:
“The most important decisions are made when you are not in the room. It is up to you to create a reputation and character that you are proud of. Every action you take defines who you are.” -Mr Burke

OR

“Would Ms Mansfield approve?”

Your message to the Nightingale Class of 2020:
I’ll always be there for you, like you’ve always been there for me.

Any final, parting words?
A 53 person family, 13 years in the making, creates bonds that will never be broken.