My name is Nancy, and I am a senior at Agnes Irwin. I have attended Agnes Irwin for the past 12 years and have had a great experience. Right from the beginning in Lower School, I learned how to read, write and make friends, and the encouraging teachers have helped me every step of the way. This support has carried me on throughout my time at Agnes Irwin.    I felt by the time I got to Middle School, I was fully prepared for the workload and was able to implement the study skills that I had been taught in Lower School. Some great parts of the Middle School were the bonding opportunities we had as a grade. In fifth and sixth grades, we went on camping trips to Camp Kweebek and Camp Echo Hill. In seventh grade, we went on a class trip to Baltimore to study the ecology in the Chesapeake Bay. We also stayed at a nice hotel and spent some time at the Baltimore Aquarium. In eighth grade, we went to Lowell, Massachusetts for our class trip. While there, we took a tour of a textile factory and went on a witch-hunt in Salem at night. Another great aspect of Middle School is the number of new students that come to AIS in the sixth grade. We had 13 new students, which brought so many new friends. One amazing opportunity that I had in Middle School was the privilege of being asked to play basketball for the High School Varsity team in eighth grade. This was an unbelievable experience and helped for a smooth transition into Upper School.   In Upper School I have been involved in many different aspects of Agnes Irwin. I have participated in community service projects, played three sports and been a part of many different clubs. One of the clubs that I am most passionate about is Model UN of which I am currently a co-President. We work very hard to prepare for two conferences: one in New York at Columbia University and the other in DC at Georgetown and the embassies. Model UN has taught me a lot about the United Nations and allowed me to make friends from all over the world. In addition to my work with the UN club, I am also the co-Head of Business club, a member of Chess club and Current Events club.    I am also tremendously involved in athletics. As an eighth grade member of the Varsity basketball team. I was challenged, both physically and mentally. It truly forced me to learn how to manage my time and be responsible about class absences due to athletic competitions. This experience also challenged me to be a better player and person. I quickly learned that the more I respected the Upper School girls, the more they respected me in return. Aside from basketball, I have also played Varsity tennis and lacrosse. I love being a part of athletics at Agnes Irwin. The coaches are dedicated to making our programs successful, as well as helping us succeed in the classroom and in our lives.   I believe that the all-girls’ environment has been a great experience for me. Most days, I find myself getting up out of bed, putting on my kilt and going to school with no make-up on and my hair looking like a mess. But that’s okay, because I still feel comfortable expressing myself and speaking up in class without worrying what my hair looks like. I love all my “sisters,” many of whom I have gone to school with for the past twelve years. We laugh and cry, and we all help each other get through everything, together.   Upper School has also brought challenges. The workload has been challenging, but it has all been worth it. Now as I begin my college application process, I truly understand the importance of my Agnes Irwin education. Everyone here is so incredibly supportive, and I am so lucky to have been able to spend my time in such a warm and caring environment. I couldn’t see myself anywhere else but here. If you are looking at schools for your daughter, I highly recommend taking a look at all Agnes Irwin has to offer, because I assure you, there is no other place like it!   -       Nancy