Senior Profile: Connor H. ’25

The Upper School offers a rigorous college preparatory program in an atmosphere where individual differences and perspectives are respected and celebrated. With a broad range of course offerings within various disciplines, students can tailor the academic program to suit their aptitudes and interests. Here, students are encouraged to reach their full potential and to "let their lives speak."

As we count down to the end of the school year, we asked some of our seniors to tell us about their interests at Friends and how their experience has prepared them for the next step.

Connor H. ’25

Up next: Duke University, Major: Engineering

Activities at Friends: Class Co-President, Varsity Baseball (Captain), Finance Club (Head), Robotics Club (Co-Founder and Co-Head), Wharton High School Investment Competition, Model United Nations, Russian and Science Center Peer Tutor, Chorus, Middle School Flag Football (Assistant Coach), Senior Family Gift Committee

Special programs/ honors: Cum Laude Society, Honor Roll 9th-12th Grade, Scholars Certificate in STEAM, National Russian Essay Competition 3x Gold Medalist

What is/has been your favorite subject at Friends?
My favorite subject at Friends has been Russian. While I typically prefer STEM-based classes, I have really enjoyed learning Russian and all the opportunities that have come along with it. I started studying Russian in sixth grade because it was such a unique language. Every time I tell someone that I study Russian, they are shocked. One of my favorite aspects of the program was that I had the same Russian teacher, Ms. Roby, for all four years of high school. This was great because we got to know each other really well. The Russian Language Immersion trip to Kyrgyzstan was one of the coolest experiences of my life, and it taught me skills that I couldn't learn in a classroom. I became more adaptable, open-minded, and resilient while deepening my understanding of culture and the Russian language. I’ve enjoyed studying Russian so much that I plan to keep taking classes in college and possibly pursue a Russian minor.

How do you think Friends has prepared you for your next step in life?
Friends has taught me so many things, but the most important thing I have learned is to be open to new experiences and take advantage of my opportunities. The community of driven students and caring teachers has helped push me past my limits and become who I am today. During my freshman year, I was so scared to speak in front of people, but my peers and teachers helped give me the confidence to join Model UN and run for Class Co-President, facing my fear head-on. Now, speaking in front of people is a common occurrence for me, and I love doing it. One of the coolest experiences of my life, my Russian Language Immersion Trip to Kyrgyzstan, only occurred because my teachers encouraged me to try something new and step outside my comfort zone. 

I love that at Friends, students are encouraged to try new things and explore all areas of study. This makes students well-rounded and helps them find their passions. In the future, I will carry this learning with me, continuing to seize opportunities and not being afraid to try something new.