Senior Spotlight: Meryam
Why did you choose/decide to go to Bennett Day School?
My time in middle school wasn’t always the best, so the prospect of a new start for my freshman year was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. As I attended orientation and met my peers and faculty, I felt a sense of relief wash over me – I had finally found a community where I belonged. It was an emotional moment for me, after feeling like an outsider for so long. With every passing moment, my excitement grew, and I knew that the next four years would be a transformative journey full of new experiences and opportunities.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I will be attending Northwestern University, where I plan to major in Biology and minor in Earth and Planetary Sciences. Following my four years at NU, my intention is to prepare for the MCAT and attend Northwestern’s medical school, as I work towards my lifelong dream of becoming a surgeon. Additionally, I aspire to establish a career in the emerging field of Aerospace Medicine.
What advice would you give rising seniors?
It’s important to effectively manage your time, take advantage of all available resources, and try to enjoy your final year of high school. While it can be challenging at times (especially while applying to colleges), I encourage you to stay focused on your goals and not get too bogged down by minor setbacks. Remember to prioritize your mental and physical health, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed. I wish you all the best!
What’s your favorite project-based learning (PBL) memory?
Out of all the PBL projects I’ve worked on, my current one is my favorite. As part of this trimester’s PBL on Space, our 11th and 12th-Grade classes competed in the Conrad Foundation’s Space for the Benefit of Earth Challenge for a chance to attend the inaugural O’Neill Symposium hosted by Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin and Club for the Future. Out of nearly 1,000 submissions, only 10 teams from across the nation were selected to attend the symposium at Blue Origin’s Orbital Launch Site and Manufacturing Complex in Florida, and our group was fortunate enough to be one of them.
Initially, I had little interest in Aerospace Medicine, but as our group designed and prototyped a customized space boot that uses special proteins from ocean animals to treat fractures and breaks in space, I knew we were on the right track. The experience allowed me to connect with many great minds and meet amazing people who have truly inspired me.
What are you excited for after Bennett?
I’m thrilled to apply the skills I’ve learned at Bennett in the real world and embark on a new chapter in my life. It’s not just about experiencing a new environment, but also about forging connections and hopefully thriving in the world. I’m eager to meet new people, establish new relationships, and create lasting memories. While I’ll always cherish the amazing family I’ve created here at Bennett, I’m excited to see what the future holds and the opportunities that lie ahead.
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