The BA Blog is honored to welcome guest blogger Cristina Zeppos, Class of 2010.

When I’m asked, “Where did you go to high school?”—an almost daily question—I’m proud to answer, "Brookfield Academy." As a “lifer,” I have memories from Level A through high school. In Level A class, reciting the poem “Ten Apples” was the first of many challenges I would face in the next 14 years. For a five-year-old child, standing in front of an assembly of students and parents was a daunting task. By Level 5, though, I confidently recited a poem on my own with the entire Lower School as an audience.

Middle School was stimulating, and I learned the skills needed to succeed in the Upper School. Writing lessons, language classes, and history lectures prepared me for high school. Having the Head of School as basketball coach when we won the league championship was a highlight, too!

My early years at BA gave me wonderful childhood memories, but the Upper School provided the opportunity to flourish. I picked classes where I had an interest and enjoyed new subjects, such as the graphic design class. Serving as co-captain, with one of my senior classmates, of this year's girls varsity basketball team--and achieving our best record in four years--is a great memory.

With graduation now a memory, I have moved to the next stage of my life: Vanderbilt University. It will be a challenge, but Brookfield Academy prepared me well. With hard work, amazing teachers and wonderful parents, I am ready to go to the next level, and I have the confidence that I can and will succeed.

Thank you, BA!