Margot Kelsey

Favorite subject at CRLS
History

Why is it your favorite subject?
The history department at CRLS is just amazing. There are a plethora of fascinating electives, and I have loved being able to explore the stories of so many different eras and regions—all of which inevitably connect to one another. I think learning about the past is the best way to learn about the present, and my history classes at CRLS have only reinforced that belief.

Favorite CRLS Staff Person
Dr. Lam, Ms. Otty, and Ms. Williams-Giordano

What makes that staff person so special?
Dr. Lam - I took AP World History and AP Comparative Government with Dr. Lam, and I loved every minute of both. Dr. Lam's classes are rigorous, engaging, and filled with humor. As the advisor for my senior thesis, Dr. Lam encouraged me to pursue even my most esoteric interests, and provided me with some of the most thoughtful feedback I have received on my writing in all of high school.

Ms. Otty - As my teacher for Modern Global Conflicts and leader of the Global Studies program, Ms. Otty has introduced me to a wide range of social and political issues, but her warmth and patience make even the most difficult subjects feel manageable. I so appreciate the focus she places on individual experiences, conveying global issues on a personal scale.

Ms. Williams-Giordano - Ms. G's AP US History course was one of the most challenging and intellectually stimulating classes I've taken at CRLS. Whether we were heatedly debating the success of the Articles of Confederation or designing games about the Red Scare, her class deepened my understanding of the people and ideas that have shaped the country we live in today.

Extracurricular activities, clubs, school-related activities
Cross country, indoor/outdoor track and field, CRLS literary magazine, Global Studies Certificate program, Latin Club

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

How did participating in any sports, arts, clubs and/or OST programs contribute to your success during your high school years?
N/A

What did you like most about CRLS? Why?
I loved the variety of opportunities that CRLS provides for students to individualize their high school experience. No two CRLS students have the same journey; everyone has different transcripts, different after-school activities, different goals for life beyond high school. It's amazing that after four years, I still find myself not infrequently having thought-provoking conversations with people I've never met before.

What is something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about the school? Why?
CRLS extends well beyond the physical buildings between Cambridge St. and Broadway. There are so many ways for students to engage in learning outside of the classroom, whether through internships, college classes, or graduation projects.

What advice would you give incoming freshmen about CRLS?
The four years of high school fly by. Take advantage of all the opportunities available to you right now, and don’t worry too much about where they will lead you. Freshman year is the perfect time to join a new club, try out for a sport, or take a class in a subject you’re not sure you like. You’ll be happiest if you find the subjects and activities that bring you joy, and pursue them to the utmost.

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