We are counting down to the end of the 2021-2022 school year! It is a particularly bittersweet time for our 8th grade students as they prepare to graduate. To help celebrate and recognize our ILS Class of 2022, we have again launched our “Meet Us Monday” blog series to introduce you to the members of this year’s graduating class.
Each week, we will be sharing interviews that we have done with each of our 8th grade students, in which they share more about their favorite ILS memories and traditions, words of wisdom they’ve received over the years, and other reflections from their years here with us at ILS. We hope that you will enjoy these reflections, and join with us in congratulating and celebrating these students!
Meet Us Monday: Beppe, ILS Class of 2022
1. How long have you attended ILS?
“I have been at ILS since sixth grade. It’s been three years, and I’ve enjoyed the whole time I have been here.”
2. To what house do you belong, and how have you developed as a person by being involved in it?
“I am in House Irenaeus – the best house. The House has taught me to work with others as a team. I have built character by working together and listening to everyone’s ideas. As a House Captain, I’ve learned to make sure everyone is included, listening to everyone’s ideas. It’s been a lot of fun to be together with student from throughout the Upper School, not just my class through my House. ”
3. What was your favorite House competition?
“All of the House competitions have been really fun. I really enjoy Field Day because it’s a whole day of events and competitions. Friends can be together the whole day. I also really enjoy the House Spirit Days and all the spirit days this year. Sometimes they include House competitions. This year we planned a scavenger hunt for the whole Upper School. Another House came up with a fun relay race. We also get food, which is always fun. ”
4. What is your favorite ILS memory? (Or, which ILS tradition will you remember the most?)
“I have a lot of really great memories. One of my favorites is playing rugby at recess. It was so fun with all the boys. It was tiring but we kept tackling each other and having fun for the entire recess period. My favorite tradition is Science Camp. I enjoyed being in the cabin with my friends and three days of non-stop fun. We have a break from school, while also learning and having fun.”
5. What subject have you studied that has most inspired you, and how? What subject have you studied that most challenged you to grow or change?
“A subject that has inspired me is definitely English. We don’t just read books - we look at the deeper meaning. We analyze every chapter and understand the metaphors. English has inspired me to think deeper about everyday events and books I read in my free time. I have to think more.
I think Theology has challenged me. I always have so many questions. It’s so hard to understand the Trinity – three persons but one God. Jesus’ resurrection is also hard to understand. Pr. Rogness and Pr. Esget have taught me about faith, how to be a better Christian, and that we don’t know everything but can still have faith in Jesus. ”
6. Where will you attend High School?
“I will be going to Gonzaga High School next year. I’m really excited. It’s a bigger school but ILS has prepared me well. I’m ready to start the next chapter in my life. ”
7. What will you miss the most about ILS?
“I think I will miss the community here. It is truly special. All the teachers have always helped me when I have questions. Even during lunch they are here to support me. I will also really miss my friends. We have been together for so long and we have formed true bond of friendship so I will really miss them as well. The community support and help I have had here at ILS is what I will miss. ”
8. How has a teacher impacted your life personally in a way you will never forget?
“All my teachers have impacted my life because of their support. Mr. Barnett has impacted my life the most. When I started at ILS, he was my first teacher. He was fun, and I enjoyed his classes. He supported me and always answered my questions. In 7th grade I enjoyed playing football with him at recess, and I will definitely remember how he taught me to be a good student and work hard while having fun. ”