Mairead began her Ursuline career in the 7th grade in 2020. Although it was somewhat difficult to start at a new school during the pandemic, the biggest draw to attend Ursuline was the community, which Mairead felt was very welcoming.
Now as a student, she continues to feel the welcoming nature of UA. She feels like she will never be alone here; there is always going to be someone nearby who will check in to see how she is doing or include her in an activity.
Mairead’s favorite tradition at Ursuline is Friendsgiving. Before the Thanksgiving break, the school celebrates Friendsgiving during lunches. Two long tables are set up in place of the normal Tea Room furniture, and the girls eat lunch as if they are one big family. Mairead brought in sugar cookies in 8th grade to be able to share with her friends and others.
Mairead is involved in many different clubs at Ursuline. She is in Glee Club and Choral Group, Drama Club, Pre-Law Club, the Junior Classics League, Model UN, Lowder News, SwiftSociety, and Memory Project. She is glad to have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities while at school to explore a variety of interests. She’s also met many close friends.
Sports have also given Mairead the opportunity to participate while forging friendships. She is currently the starting goalie on the Varsity Field Hockey team, and in 8th grade was on the Junior High Basketball team and the JV Softball team. Mairead says that the Field Hockey team is one of her favorite Ursuline communities, and it was one of the best decisions she made to join the team and make friends in other grades.
Service projects are an important aspect of Mairead’s experience at Ursuline. The Memory Project is a fun activity for her to engage in, but she also knows that it will bring a smile to a child in another country. Mairead volunteers at a preschool and at a food pantry near her home.
Her older brother has Down Syndrome, and he participates in Best Buddies and the Special Olympics. Having seen how much those programs have helped her brother, she hopes to become involved to help other children with disabilities.
Reflecting on her years at Ursuline, Mairead is looking forward to the academic challenge of taking Advanced Placement classes, but also looking to create more memories. Since her grade began at UA during the pandemic, she only met half her classmates that first year. They worked hard to meet each other and form friendships since then, and they look forward to what memories their high school years will bring!
