Meet Abby, Class of 2020 Alum

“I joined ASH’s community in 7th grade where I was immediately welcomed and found a sense of belonging.”

Abby is a starter at the Haverford Volleyball program and is pursuing a Biology major. Her team just finished their season in the NCAA Division III. It was a historic season for Haverford as the squad registered its most wins in a single season since 2009 and earned an NCAA tournament victory for the first time since 2014.

How was your #ASHexperience?
My ASH experience was unforgettable and I would not change a thing. Our community is accepting, transparent, and engaging. My teachers were consistently invested in my growth which set me up for success in my entire six years of learning and later. If I could share one lesson I took from ASH, it would be to take advantage of all the opportunities provided to you; join clubs, get to know your peers, create meaningful relationships with your teachers, ask for help, and appreciate the people that have helped you succeed.

Do you have a special memory of your time at ASH?
One special memory I have from ASH was participating in the Tanzania Service Learning Program. It allowed me to connect and teach students with a very different culture and upbringing than myself. In addition, the trip taught me that language is not the only mechanism to create relationships with others. 

What staff member impacted you the most?
A staff member that was influential in my learning and success was Ms. M. She taught me for two years of IB Psychology and I developed skills in analytical thinking, mature writing, and crafting arguments.
 
The picture below is with Coach D, a former chemistry teacher at ASH who was my assistant coach for two years. During my team's appearance in the NCAA tournament, he came to support and cheer me on. I am grateful that the ASH community is so invested in their students and maintains friendships many years down the road!

 
How have you been navigating college life during a pandemic?
Starting college during the pandemic was challenging. It was difficult to get to know my peers over zoom and connect with my professors during my first year. However, circumstances have changed and learning has returned to in-person for our 2021-2022 academic year. This has allowed me to make lasting friendships with both my peers as we were finally allowed to socialize, as well as my professors as the majority have open-door policies. As to navigating college life, I cannot stress enough how important it is to make yourself uncomfortable and put yourself out there. The reality is that the college experience really is enhanced by having a network of friends that you can rely on as your family, especially if your actual family is far. 

What are you looking forward to?
I am now studying at Haverford College outside of Philadelphia as a Biology Major and a member of the volleyball team. I work in the Alumni and Parent Relations office as an intern where I maintain relationships with graduates and other donors. I plan to complete Haverford’s 4+1 Masters Program in Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania and later go on to med school. 
 
Being a part of the Haverford volleyball program has allowed me to form lifelong bonds with my teammates as I rely on them day in and day out. Finding people that you can spend numerous hours of the day with is a special feeling and essential for enjoying college. 
 
#ASHvoices
We have a diverse community of students, staff, and families from around the world. Each member of our community brings their own story that enriches the #ASHexperience.