Smile ’24

Boarding Student from Shenzhen, China
She/Her

Photo by Ola Oladitan ’24

What are you involved in at CA?

At CA, I’m a co-head of the Poetry Club, a co-editor-in-chief of The Centipede (CA’s student newspaper), a head tour guide, and a co-head of the Writing Center. I’m also a member of the varsity tennis team and theater tech crew. 

Why did you choose CA?

I chose CA because of its supportive academic environment that emphasizes collaboration and exploration. I wanted to be able to dive deeper into prior interests and try new things. Everyone here genuinely wants you to succeed and will ensure that you receive the help and guidance you need. CA’s robust curriculum in both the humanities and STEM has pushed me to think critically, make connections, and engage with the world around me in more meaningful ways.

What is the best class you’ve taken at CA and why?

It’s a tie between two English electives with Nick Hiebert in my junior year, Thoreau and Kindreds and Memoir and Identities. In Thoreau and Kindreds, we explored topics of self, community, and justice using works by Henry David Thoreau. The class was one of the most engaging and expansive experiences I’ve ever had, and learning extended well beyond the classroom setting. Walking through Walden Pond, where Thoreau once lived and worked, we were able to reflect on what it means to take part in a community. In Memoir and Identities, we examined poetry, essays, and graphic novels to challenge our understanding of personal narrative and all the forms it can take. Our discussions enabled me to give voice to my own experiences. Both classes equipped me with the tools and the confidence to call myself a writer. 

What is your favorite boarding memory or tradition?

My favorite boarding tradition has got to be house food every Saturday night, where house parents make treats for everyone in the house. I’ve made so many memories in the Hobson House common room, chatting about my week and exciting goings-on over chocolate-covered strawberries or some really top-notch brownies.