a senior s lens on discovery

A SENIOR ’ S

Lens

Senior adam mehdi remarks on twelve years of discovery.

Adam gave a speech at the beginning of the year to prospective families at an admission event. These remarks are excerpted from that speech. From brilliant teachers to just genuinely interesting classes, learning is made fun at Greenhill. I entered way back in first grade so I think it’s safe to say that I’ve been here a while, but I assure you I’ve enjoyed every bit of it. I could go on and on about all the classes I’ve taken and how interesting they are to me. But to give a general example: the types of classes that are offered here are the same type I see in college course catalogs across the country. The classes here really allow you to explore your educational interests, keeping you engaged all the way through. I truly enjoy going to my classes every day, and the people who teach them too. Speaking of which, leads me to my favorite part about Greenhill. There is a saying around here that goes “Greenhill isn’t the buildings, it’s the people.” When I first heard it, I just thought it was some cliché that Mr. Tom Perryman ’81, Assistant Head of School, told us. But upon truly reflecting over the past 12 years, I’ve realized that it really is the people. There’s a vibe and sense of community here that I haven’t heard of anywhere else. Our openness to talk about important issues and embrace diversity helps each individual grow and prepare for the real world. But just talking about them won’t get you anywhere. Truly being immersed in this community and getting to talk to your friends whose beliefs, values, and traditions come from all over is something you don’t find at just any institution. I’ve discovered so much about myself through discussions with my peers. I’ve really grown up with some of my friends here, and we’ve all come a long way. Greenhill has the type of environment where everyone is pushing each other to be better people, learners, and friends, and it’s not just the students. The teachers and faculty want to see you grow and strive to be your best self. They are, without a doubt, some of the kindest and wisest people I’ve ever met. I’d even go as far as to call them my friends too. Because being able to have that open relationship with your teachers makes you a better student and a better person. It’s all these people that truly make Greenhill what it is. Finally, I’d like to end on one small personal note. The last time I gave a speech was to be vice president for the school’s student council. I got elected, but I wouldn’t have even run if it weren’t for my growth at Greenhill. In Lower School I was one of the shyest and quietest kids on campus. All of my teachers' comments were about how I didn’t talk enough in class. But through the years, I’ve gained confidence due to the endless encouragement and support of my family, teachers, and friends. Greenhill has allowed me to discover myself and take advantage of the amazing opportunities the school offers. Believe me, I’ve only just touched the surface of my experience, much less the completely different — but equally amazing — experiences of any other person you’d find here. You can see why this place is more than just a school to me.