I grew up in a suburb of Philadelphia called Chadds Ford, but I also jumped around a few places, moving to Guangzhou, China for two years right before coming to Emma. I consider both of these places my home, especially since I used to travel between the two frequently. Currently, I live right by Emma with my mom, while my dad visits occasionally. I’m also very close with my grandmother, who stays in Chadds Ford, so whenever I’m on break, I always make sure to visit her because she makes the best food!

When I was in 8th grade, I knew I wanted to go to a boarding school because my parents were working in China. I came to Emma my freshmen year as a boarder, and it has been a very valuable experience. I was able to meet amazing friends and discover more of my passions, such as taking photos and getting more into science. Now as a day student, I still feel the incredibly inclusive environment and the support Emma offers. Whether it’s finding the clubs I’m into or being able to conduct experiments outside of class, the community has made it possible to do what I love.

I first started skating at 5 years old, which was introduced to me by my mom. To be honest, I wasn’t the most passionate about skating at first, but as I grew older, skating continued to grow on me, and I’ve only gotten more enthusiastic about it. I mentioned before that I was a boarder my freshmen year, but the pandemic changed a lot of things. It was ultimately the factor that got me back into skating, since it opened up the opportunity to pick it back up while I was in Pennsylvania for an extended period of time. I thought there was no way I’d go back to skating, especially because of how technical the sport is. I thought that 2 years was enough for me to lose all my skills, but I’ve learned that determination can take you a long way!

Skating is incredibly rewarding to me, because of how much effort and time it takes. The pressure during competitions is always high, and though I still get nervous, it has helped me learn how to manage stress, especially under pressure, that I’ve found to be beneficial even in an academic setting! Watching my training pay off is an incredible feeling, and it has encouraged me to set other goals for myself, which is always a very exciting learning process.

Besides skating, I love all forms of art! From photography to painting, to playing the cello, I appreciate all aspects of the arts.

So far, I’d say my favorite tradition at Emma is Revels, just because of how unique it is. However, I’m looking forward to Ring Week. 

Congratulations on Nationals, Victoria! Thank you for sharing your passions and contributing to the Emma Willard School community in unique and significant ways. We look forward to seeing the impact you will have as you continue to serve and shape our world!