I went into Harvard-Westlake hoping to find my people among my classmates. While I did achieve that, I also built some of my most meaningful relationships with the adults at school.
I first met the legendary Sharon Cuseo as an introverted and awkward incoming seventh grader, and I honestly cannot imagine going through my upper school experience without her guidance, support and friendship. While many of my friends see their dean as someone who helps with scheduling and college applications, I see mine as so much more. I have felt comfortable enough to cry in her office, gossip about the latest drama and be completely myself. Even though she is one of the busiest people on campus (she’s left my texts on read multiple times), Ms. Cuseo has always made time for me. I am certain that we will keep in touch for years to come.
On my first day of Algebra II class sophomore year, I sat nervously in the front row where an intimidating teacher spoke (or rather yelled) at us. I didn’t know it then, but Mr. Chien would become one of the most inspiring and attentive teachers I’ve ever had. He enthusiastically made time to meet with me and created a tight knit classroom environment. At the end of sophomore year Mr. Chien told us he wouldn’t be returning to the school next year. I was heartbroken, but his encouragement and life lessons helped me through my next two years of high school. Aside from being my loud and funny math teacher, Mr. Chien became a friend I could rely on. I’m deeply grateful for the time we shared at the Upper School.
English has never been a class where I felt confident. When I received my schedule for senior year and saw that I had been placed in the class Same House, Different Worlds instead of the one I had wanted, I felt disappointed. Ms. Cuseo reassured me that I’d be more than fine because I had been assigned Mr. Michaelson. On the first day of class, he had us go around the room and share our underrated and overrated opinions. Right away, the classroom dynamic was fun and engaging. Mr. Michaelson is more than just a teacher, he’s someone who truly connects with his students. He’s vulnerable, often sharing personal stories that relate to the texts we’re reading. These moments bring our discussions to life and challenge us to think more deeply. I am glad to say that I actually started to look forward to English class every day! I see it as a space where I can express myself, think creatively and be challenged. That change is entirely thanks to Mr. Michaelson’s passion for teaching literature and care for his students.
My advice for incoming sophomores is to be open. Be open to new people, unexpected connections and don’t underestimate the impact that teachers, deans and other adults on campus can have on your life. I’m leaving Harvard-Westlake not just with what I’ve learned in classrooms, but with a community that I’ll remember for years to come.
