Zebra Tales
Zebra Tales
2024-25

Sophie '25

Hometown: I grew up in Shenzhen, China, but I currently live in Lexington, MA

Groton activities: Theater, Model UN, squash, Groton Community Engagement, Diversity & Inclusion, The Circle Voice
Most surprising when you first arrived at Groton: Dorm check-ins every night. As a new boarding student, I found our 10 p.m. check-ins to be a great opportunity to meet and get to know my fellow dorm-mates, and I loved sharing the memorable moments each day with my dorm. Occasional feeds, when our affiliate on duty would bring snacks and various treats, were also a great bonus!
Favorite class: Mr. Lyons' US History class. While his intense presence was initially intimidating, US History with Mr. Lyons quickly became one of my favorite classes, with his passion for the subject hooking my attention for every minute. I looked forward to every class as I listened to him explain each historical event with meticulous attention to detail, connecting the things we learned in class back to our present. Although our US research paper was the most challenging project I undertook all year, Mr. Lyons guided us through the process with a steady hand, and I gained so much experience and knowledge from his feedback. 
Most memorable Groton moment: I saw my first big snowstorm during my first year at Groton. We had just returned from Winter Break, and as I glanced out of my dorm window, I saw nothing but a sheet of white. I bundled up to grab a meal at the Dining Hall and was met with a white haze that covered everything on the Circle. The thick snow went up to my calves, and even though the wind blew in my face, I grinned hard—the snowball fights I had after the storm made it an even better treat!
Favorite Dining Hall food: Grilled cheese with tomato soup is my ultimate comfort food at the dining hall.
 
Favorite place to study: The library stacks. There is something comforting about the basement level of the school library, with its shelves upon shelves of academic tomes, the little lamps on each separated desk, and focused students working on their own projects. I like to study there not only because of the quiet, but I'm also motivated by the fact that everyone in the stacks is choosing to devote time to their work. It makes me feel like we're joined by our collective desire for academic excellence, even though everyone is technically working solo.
 

List of 3 news stories.

  • Golden hour is truly gorgeous

    Sweaters, Snacks, and Seasonal Shenanigans

    What is the first thing I notice about Fall on the Circle? The breeze turns from a humid curtain to a cool breath of relief.
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  • A Bittersweet Goodbye

    At 5:15, my alarm rang, and I opened my eyes to total darkness. Next to me, my roommate was still soundly asleep, but I was determined to remain awake. I was in for a pleasant shock when, in the middle of brushing my teeth, my friends texted me that they had already left for the Lake Michigan shore. Without any delay, I grabbed my hoodie, and dashed into the chilly Evanston air.
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  • At the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s busiest street

    Fringe Fever!

    Another day, another round of theater excursions! It had been a week since I first arrived in Edinburgh with the Scotland GEO, and I still had trouble believing that we’re really at the biggest theater festival in the world.
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