Jenna Issacson I’m taking wisdom, community and lasting friendships which have helped me grow into the person I am today, and I’m going to leave behind a well-known safe haven . . . but I know there will always be a place for me here at Park.
Issy Julian I’m going to take wisdom from Mr. Amershadian, and I’m going to leave behind my bio textbook.
Goh Kobata I’m going to take 10 years of memories on the playground, and I’m going to leave behind all my artwork.
Liz Koris I’m going to take my goalie experience and training, and I’m going to leave behind the goal I tended.
human beings has kept me interested and wanting to learn more. Attending a liberal arts school has forced me to take a variety of economics, political science, history, and anthropology classes, but the people I met on my gap year continue to help me understand these macro issues that we discuss in all these classes on a micro level. But you don’t have to travel to South Africa and meet Zoleka to get a human perspective on these issues. I simply encourage you to talk to and get to know as many people as you can, to build a community wherever you go. Class of 2011, you already have a head start because you are graduating from the Park School. I believe this is the biggest ninth grade class in ten years, and from what I understand and from my brief visit with you a few weeks ago; it also seems to be one of the strongest. This ninth grade class has inside jokes about stellar Stump Sprouts pajama pants and Goh’s favorite ice cream (pistachio?). Park taught me, and I can see it has taught you, how to be a member of a community. I hope that you take this knowledge and experience with you as you leave Park. You are all going to new schools, entering entirely new communities. I urge you to build your own communities and to learn from the people who surround you. Don’t just get to know your fellow classmates — talk to your teachers outside the classroom, get to know your lunch lady or your bus driver. The less you have in common with someone, the more you have to learn from them. So, Class of 2011, I hope that the communities that you build in your high schools, colleges, and beyond are as stellar as the one you have right here. Thank you and congratulations!
The Park Bulletin | Fall 2011
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