Senior Annabelle Braden is an athlete and Head Day Prefect in Thornwood. She has been at Darlington since Pre-K and has been a part of many activities during her time here.

“I’ve definitely been really involved in sports at Dar. I play volleyball, basketball, and run track,” Braden said. “Playing sports has really been good for me because I have learned to be a leader and have met so many new people. It’s been great because I have learned so many things from sports, and it has enhanced my personality a lot more.”

Along with sports, Braden has also been very involved in the dorms as well.

“I’m a Head Day Prefect in Thornwood. I’ve always been a very social and outgoing person, which I guess is one of my good leadership qualities. I’ve put myself out there and talked to and met a lot of new people,” Braden said. “Being a leader in the dorms has highlighted those qualities, and I think it will really help me in the future.”

Braden has struggled with learning how to become successful in high school but has found her way.

“When I first started out, I didn’t think my grades really mattered, but they really did. I had to go through it before learning that grades have a big impact on how high school is,” Braden said. “I also have struggled with time management. I had to learn how to get things done whenever I had the time because with sports it’s a little hard to find the right time to do things. Now I’m really on top of things.”

Braden has many things she enjoys doing outside of school and feels it is necessary to not only focus on school all of the time.

“Outside of school, I really just like hanging out with my friends and still playing sports. I think it’s a good way for me to balance school and life,” Braden said. “Sometimes I get stressed so I just grab a coffee or some food with my friends. It really helps.”

There were some lows throughout her high school career, but Braden has enjoyed her time here at Darlington.

“I’ve personally loved it here at Darlington. In the beginning, I wish I knew it’s not the end of the world if you lose some friends. You gain some, and you’ll lose some,” Braden said. “Darlington has been really great because I have found my passions and closest friends here. I got involved with sports and leadership which really made it better.”

Looking at the future, Braden is unsure of where she wants to further continue her education but knows what she plans on doing.

“After Darlington, I’m not entirely sure where I want to go to college. I have some opportunities, but I’m probably going to go to a big state school,” Braden said. “As for what I want to do, I am going to major in sports broadcasting. I can’t wait to see what’s in the future for me.”