When I first arrived at Clark for my visit day, I was terrified. I would be going to Clark as an eighth-grader and when I decided to shadow, I was excited but nervous. I was opening myself up to an unknown environment with people that had known each other for years. But, when I first walked in the door, I was greeted by many happy faces. Mrs. Kuehn was there and made sure I had everything I needed. When Mia, the student I would shadow, came to the front desk, I immediately felt so much better. I have always been someone to get really worked up and nervous when meeting new people, but when Mia introduced herself, I felt so welcomed.

Mia kept me with her all day and made sure I felt comfortable. The first class she had was history. I got to meet all the students in her class and they made me feel so welcome. Mr. Hunter treated me just like one of his students. My older sister had attended SCS her whole life, so when I met some of the teachers, they all knew who I was because of this. During history, the class was practicing marching for the Battle of Gettysburg and I joined right in. Everyone was welcoming and I was no longer nervous.

At lunch I was welcomed by Mia and all her friends. They treated me like one of their friends. People that I had known from my previous school who transferred to Clark were welcoming and came and talked to me throughout the day to check on me. All the teachers treated me like any other student, which was helpful. When it came time for me to take the entrance test, Mrs. Kuehn made me comfortable and assured me that the test was nothing to worry about. After finishing the test, she took me on a tour of the school and asked questions to learn more about me.

Even today at Clark I think about my shadow day. I am so thankful for having shadowed Mia. Now, anytime I need help I know I always have her to help. Not only Mia, but all the students were helpful when I first arrived. I never felt like an outcast; everyone included me and I immediately fit it. The teachers helped me with anything I didn’t understand. I’m so grateful for everyone at Clark and the inclusive, understanding, and friendly environment.