Piper Ullman

Favorite subject at CRLS
History and Ceramics

Why is it your favorite subject?
History. I will say this time and time again, the history department at CRLS is the strongest department, with amazing teachers and staff that are extremely knowledgeable and devoted to what they do. I can truly say I have never had a bad history class at CRLS and I have taken a ton of them.

Ceramics. The ceramics room has a special place in my heart, a truly safe space where I can create freely. I have spent countless hours in this room, working on ambitious projects, feeling supported by the amazing community of everyone in the room.

Favorite CRLS Staff Person
Ms. Otty, Jon Baring-Gould, Mr. Cohen, and Ms. Petrella

What makes that staff person so special?
Ms. Otty - I recommend you take an Otty class before graduating, I believe it should be required. Her love of teaching is infectious, inspiring me to want to pursue a career in history myself. Her passion for the content is obvious and she takes such complex topics and makes them captivating for her students. 

Jon - Who always believes in me even as I take on seemingly impossible ceramic challenges? His kindness and encouragement pushed me to take on challenges while feeling very supported.

Mr. Cohen - Cohen is a passionate history teacher who adds to an extended list of amazing history teachers in this school. His elective classes are so much fun for all students. I recommend you take one!

Ms. Petrella - She has been the best Falcon Block teacher anyone could ask for -- full of stories and passion for her students -- it is obvious she cares. She is always willing to listen to my stories and give advice. I am lucky to have had her in my corner all four years.

Extracurricular activities, clubs, school-related activities
Cross-Country/Track and Field, Swim Team, Animal Rescue Club, Yearbook Club, Freshman Mentor, and Ceramics Club

What were some of the out-of-school time (O.S.T) programs that you participated in anytime between grades 6-12?
Scouts BSA

How did being enrolled in any O.S.T. program(s) contribute to your success both in and out of high school? 
Being involved in this program and becoming an Eagle Scout, one of the first females in the nation to do so, has made a tremendous impact on my last few years. The Scouts BSA program has taught me responsibility and perseverance, I learned so much and have cherished all my experiences with this program.

What did you like most about CRLS? Why?
I appreciate that for many sports, you can try out without previous experience, a great way to try new things and meet interesting people.

What is something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about the school? Why?
Going to high school in Cambridge is a very unique experience. There are many opportunities and programs to get involved with and ways to give back to the community, I recommend you take advantage. Another unique thing about going to school in Cambridge is a large network of bike lanes. One of my favorite parts of my day is my bike ride to school. It is a great way to start the day. 

What advice would you give incoming freshmen about CRLS?
My advice would be to get to know your teachers and Learning Community staff. Firstly, good connections with your teachers are helpful in your later years. Secondly, when your guidance counselor calls an “optional meeting,” go to those to get individualized help, you might often be one of the only ones there.

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