Hawken is the type of place where you smile at someone walking by and they smile back. This school is full of authentic people, and I appreciate that Hawken encourages you to work hard to become the best version of yourself.
It would be impossible to choose a favorite class or a specific teacher who’s meant a lot to me. I’m a lifer at Hawken, and I can honestly say that every single teacher has had an impact on me. Each one has challenged me to think in a different way.
Participating in speech and debate has helped me find my voice and has given me the confidence to pursue my other interests. I’ve enjoyed my involvement with tennis, chess, Calliope, the AffNo, and the Asian Culture Club. And without speech and debate, my co-editor and I wouldn’t have made a Jeff Goldblum themed Calliope announcement in front of the entire Upper School at School Meeting!
Hawken isn’t afraid to tackle hard subjects. I write for the AffNo and we’ve published pieces that have sparked some challenging yet productive conversations. Having faculty who are accessible and open to confronting difficult questions has helped me and my classmates realize that in this complex world, our voices matter.
Thank you to the many people who give to the Hawken Fund. I’ve seen every single one of my friends benefit from your generosity. Because of your support, Hawken students are finding their voices. Your impact on our education is extraordinary.
Samia ’19