WOODLAWN ALUMNI

Hello, I’m Michael Muchane, a senior here at Woodlawn. I have been at Woodlawn since the 6th grade, and I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions of my life. Over the past 7 years I have been immersed in a wide variety of experiences, but what has always stood out to me is the close-knit community that is the core of Woodlawn. In my opinion, the ties that exist between all students (Kindergarten through 12th grade) are a large part of Woodlawn’s identity. As a student, when I show up to school, I am not only greeted enthusiastically by seniors and lower classmen alike, but the Common Hour, Intermezzo, and a variety of Woodlawn traditions like the Powder Puff game encourage connections between students of all grades. I have come to know and grow fond of many students in the middle and lower schools due to these types of interactions between classes.

One of the lines of Woodlawn’s Alma Mater says “every student shines”, and what makes that possible is the vast array of opportunities that are available here at Woodlawn. Even though we don’t have a school orchestra, I have performed on the piano quite a few times for students and parents. A good example is “Grand Friends” day, which is a relatively new tradition here at Woodlawn - this provides an audience of over 300 people for both instrumental and vocal performances. Although I may be more instrumentally inclined, I enjoy sports thoroughly and last year became a founding member of Woodlawn’s first varsity swim team. One of the highlights of the season was chanting the oh-so-fitting words “Tiny but Mighty!” before each meet! I’m looking forward to my last and hopefully greatest year here at Woodlawn. Senior year, here I come!

Michael is a current graduate of Wake Forest University.

Meredith is a recent graduate of Pomona College and is currently employed at PayPal in the Bay Area.

Hello, my name is Reilly Milburn, and I am a senior here at Woodlawn. As I finish my fourth and final year at this school, I look forward to the new opportunities I will experience in college. However, none of them would be possible without the many great experiences I’ve had at Woodlawn. From the close ties with my peers and teachers, to the ability to find my passions in work and life, Woodlawn has played a crucial role in shaping my identity.

One of my favorite things about Woodlawn is the ability to try new things, and at the same time delve deeper into areas and interests that you love. For example, prior to my admittance to Woodlawn, I had never played a school sport. With Woodlawn’s inclusive community, I was quickly welcomed into the world of sports, and have been able to participate in soccer, track, and cross-country. As a member of the cross-country team, I was able to help Woodlawn secure first place in our Conference and State championship meets, moments I will never forget. Aside from sports, Woodlawn has given me the opportunity to explore other interests of mine, such as music, journalism, and physics. When I’m not hard at work, you’ll be sure to catch me rocking out at the monthly open mic nights on my beloved electric guitar. With graduation right around the corner, I am very excited for what lies ahead. While I know that college will be different from my high school years, I am not worried. I know that Woodlawn has prepared me socially and academically for my future.

Reilly is a recent graduate of Haverford College and is currently pursing a Ph.D in Astrophysics at UNC Chapel Hill.

Hi! My name is Clare MacDonald, and I’m a junior at Woodlawn School. Honestly, when I read those words, “I’m a junior,” it’s a little daunting. I’ve been at this school since 5th grade; my formative years of middle school have quickly passed me by in a creative, energetic blur, and already being in the heat of high school seems impossible. Though college applications are on the horizon, my stress immediately dissipates upon walking in the door of Woods Hall, because any other environment would be unimaginable.

We’re more than just your average school. We’re a vibrant, diverse community that supports each other’s various strengths and weaknesses. For example, one of my good friends is a talented visual artist, while another is a Division 1 soccer recruit. Woodlawn adapts to the individual and gives them the materials to succeed in their respective passions, and this could not be possible without our fantastic teachers. The excitement they have for their subjects is contagious in our small class sizes that emphasize challenging, hands-on learning, and complex discussions. Not to mention, they’re always available to discuss the drama of the latest Mad Men episode or rave extensively about a certain band!

If I had to pinpoint my favorite thing about Woodlawn (this is more difficult than one would think), it would be the ability to do anything I’m interested in. From playing three varsity sports to teaching a middle school music elective to co-directing an award-winning medical PSA, I’ve dabbled and experimented in a wide array of topics.

Simply stated, Woodlawn is an integral part of my identity. Well-rounded, with lifetime friendships, I know I have the tools to face whatever college has in store for me.

Clare is a recent graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and is employed at LinkedIn in San Francisco, CA.