Annabelle C. ’25

Entry grade: 9th grade

Previous school: Foothill Country Day School

Before arriving at Poly, I literally knew no one. I was quite honestly afraid and nervous about my transition. However, even during the pandemic, Poly's community created so many opportunities for incoming students to connect with the existing student body. All the students are so welcoming and genuinely excited to meet you. At a summer event, many students just rushed up to talk to me and shared all the niche details about Poly with me. Poly's supportive community coupled with its strong academics and facets for creativity made me choose Poly.

My favorite class at Poly is easily APUSH with Ms. KOB and Dr. MC. Prior to the class, I viewed history simply as a study of events and important people. However, APUSH taught me that history is so much more than that. During the class, we studied many stories from suppressed voices, showcasing new perspectives on textbook events. I realized that history was so much more than a timeline of events but rather a way to redirect the spotlight on forgotten and suppressed voices. APUSH taught me a powerful lesson, one that I will never forget.

Each year before our "block week," or finals week, Poly invites an impromptu group to perform for the Upper School. I always love watching them take on these crazy personas and playing them out in a random scenario. This fun assembly helps slow down my hectic week and reminds me that there is so much more in life than exams.