“I will never forget the simple things like hanging out with friends during free periods or even just saying goodbye to everyone at the end of every day. I will miss just being a student. If I could, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.”
Jack Romero graduated from the Music Department and is headed to the University of Southern California to major in their Popular Music Program! He told us what he thought made The Academy unique.
“What makes The Academy unique is the bond everybody holds with each other because it is such a small school, not just within the student body but with the faculty as well. The small class sizes really allow for individualized help. Before I came to The Academy I was a solid B student, but after I built relationships with my teachers and learned that it was good to ask for help, my GPA skyrocketed to a 4.0. The arts education is so rewarding because once again, I built individualized relationships with every person and teacher in my department. We are a family and we always will be. I hang out with Mr. Roux and Mr. Tynan just as much as I hang out with my friends during free periods.”
Jack also had some advice for incoming freshmen.
“Do not be afraid to experiment with your art. Reach out of your comfort zone! Never once did I believe I would sing opera in my future and I performed a trio from the opera The Marriage of Figaro at the All-school Showcase in front of a sold-out crowd at The Athenaeum!”
But most importantly, Jack cherished the Academy community.
“Being gay, I was terrified coming to a new school. I personally was not accepted as a gay man at my previous school, nor did I ever get the chance to focus on my art. I chose The Academy because it felt safe and good. Even during my shadow day, I not only was met with open arms, but with open hearts and a smile. This is something you cannot find anywhere else, and I wish students elsewhere knew what it felt like to be surrounded by love and acceptance every day.”
Congratulations Jack!