Thank you Galloway

The Galloway experience is one of a kind. Students are known to be inclusive, creative, and fun-loving, all attributes which the school supports completely. Being at a small school that values community above all else has allowed me to cultivate meaningful relationships with teachers, faculty, and peers alike. I have also learned to value expression and the opposing thoughts of others in any situation, which has driven me to be a better person myself. Being a part of this community for the past 13 years has truly allowed me to grow as a person and a student, preparing for the next chapter of my life. 

I came to The Galloway School in kindergarten, meaning I am a “lifer.” My family and I moved to Atlanta from Dallas, Texas, when I was 5 years old, and my brother and I were immediately enrolled. My parents loved the school’s values and their teaching methods, which I couldn’t appreciate at the time, but now, being a senior, I can. I often think about how different my life might have turned out had I not gone to Galloway – rather, at least I try. But I really cannot imagine my life without this school. The creation of relationships is very important to the community here, and the students learn to be sharing and kind to everyone. Though friend groups fluctuate and sometimes things just don’t work out, I always feel that I have people I can turn to because of these connections created through the Galloway family.

Mastery, community, fearlessness, and individuality. These are the 4 pillars which Galloway was built on and they truly embody each and every aspect of The Galloway School. Mastery represents the determination of the students and faculty to do all that they can to learn, as well as the broad course offerings – “Play the game of learning, not the game of school.” If you are a Galloway student, regardless of how long you’ve been at the school, you’ve undoubtedly heard this quote, probably from quite a few of your teachers. Community is the most important factor out of the four. Galloway always creates spaces for students to gather together, regardless of grade, and create relationships with everyone. Fearlessness is inspired in all students, and it goes hand in hand with individuality. To be yourself is to be fearless. It is no easy feat to feel vulnerable, and Galloway ensures that their students feel safe and comfortable in themselves and helps to cultivate confidence in being yourself. 

Growing up, and still to this day, I’ve never truly known what I’ve wanted to be in my future. Sure, I’ve found some things I like and that could have been or will be in my future, but I’ve yet to find my true main passion. I’ve wanted to be everything from an interior designer to a journalist, an entrepreneur to an artist, and even a singer at one point. Regardless of my indecisiveness, Galloway has always provided me with creative outlets to explore my passions, whatever they may be at the moment. This has really helped me become comfortable with the Galloway community from a young age, and has made me feel like it is my home. Because of Galloway, I found my love for writing through being a member of The Elliott staff, and, for the moment at the very least, plan on pursuing just that in college. 

Though it should be scary, I feel more than prepared to take my next step in life: college. Galloway has helped me cultivate perseverance, confidence, trust, acceptance, accountability, and many more important qualities that will allow me to thrive in my future. Because of Galloway, I know that I am ready to move on, and I am forever grateful for everything it's brought me.