By Livia Bene and Lillian Feng, Staff Writers |

As the Class of 2026 prepares to leave Winsor behind, we frequently commemorate our beloved graduating seniors. However, we want to highlight another incoming change: the arrival of a new class of ninth graders. As many of us know, the transition from Lower School to Upper School can be difficult; therefore, we asked our seniors to offer advice for the Class of ’30.

When asked what they would tell their 14-year-old selves, Luisa Griffith-Gorgati ’26 responded, “You don’t need to stress yourself out over so many things. Take it day by day and don’t lose your optimism.” Aria Wang ’26 noted that it’s important to “Try new things! You never know what might suddenly become the most important thing in your life. I quit my sport of seven years to row for Winsor, and it was the best decision I ever made.” When transitioning from Lower School, we’ve found it’s striking how greatly the number of non-academic opportunities within Winsor increases. While that sudden influx can feel overwhelming, many seniors have described finding new passions by experimenting in the Upper School.

These new avenues to passions and interests have given many seniors opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. Griffith-Gorgati shared that “Theatre at Winsor has hugely impacted me…When I was a freshman, theatre became the space where I could be my true self.” She notes that she also found value in her interactions within the theater: “My cast mates and directors changed me into a more confident, well-rounded, and thoughtful individual…I learned so much from the [older students] who mentored me and who became my role models.”

Finally, the seniors reflected on lessons they learned about growth, balance, and making the most of their time in the Upper School with current and future students. Wang reminds us to “Stay humble. You don’t have to have it all figured out yet, nor should you…Allow yourself room to explore and grow as a person, student, athlete, and friend. There are so many lessons to be learned from the people around you.”

As the Class of 2026 prepares to leave Winsor behind, their message to the Class of ’30 is clear: embrace the process of self-discovery, remain open to new experiences, and allow both your individual identity and your class community to grow over time. Congratulations, seniors!