Q: Why did you choose to attend B&P?
A: My parents, their siblings, and many other family members attended Bonner & Prendie, so I’m continuing that tradition. However, I chose B&P because of my Shadow Visit experience. I liked the community and felt welcomed. I knew Mr. Walsh (Patrick ’12), the theatre director, and many kids in the program through Upper Darby Summer Stage, which I’ve participated in since fourth grade. In eighth grade, I shadowed a freshman through his day here and saw the excellent art program led by Mr. Lenge. I felt the school was the best place to improve my skills.
Q: Tell us about your experience so far at Bonner & Prendie.
A: I’ve met fantastic teachers who have helped me improve in all subjects, especially art. Within the theatre program, the senior students are very skilled and welcoming to freshmen, which has made a big difference. The school’s supportive environment has taught me a lot about becoming a leader and improving my skills.
Q: What art classes have you taken?
A: In the past two years, I’ve taken broad art classes covering drawing with graphite and charcoal, watercolor, and printmaking. In my senior year, I’ll be able to take more specialized art classes focusing on specific types of art, like printmaking.
Q: What extracurricular activities are you involved with at B&P?
A: I’m involved in the theater program, acting in musicals and dramas. I’m also part of the Mock Trial team, which is a great way to learn about law and public speaking through acting. This year, it was a criminal trial about a pretend murder, and I played a witness. I also help with the yearbook and am in the Student Ambassadors Program, volunteering on visitation days and open houses.
Q: What theater productions have you acted in at B&P?
A: I’ve acted in five productions so far, including: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as Potiphar, Grease as Vince Vonsane, and an original play by Mr. Walsh, called Holy Mother of Bingo, where I played the detective. This year, we did High School Musical, where I played Jack Scott, and Footloose, where I played Reverend Moore.
Q: What makes the arts programs at B&P exceptional?
A: B&P excels at helping students identify and strengthen their unique skills. They focus on individuality and personal growth rather than just teaching us to copy what others are doing. The teachers, like Mr. Lenge and Mr. Harvey, encourage us to think for ourselves and understand the ‘why’ behind what we are learning, not just the ‘how.’ I appreciate how the teachers help us become individual artists. They focus on critical thinking and personal development, ensuring we understand the reasoning behind our work.
Q: What do you want to do after high school?
A: I want to attend college but haven’t decided on a career path yet. I like English and Art, so I’ll probably pursue something in those areas.