'Taylor' made for college: Class of '15 grad dishes on life post-MV

By: Abigail Sullivan

High school is, by its nature, an ever-changing environment. Each year, new faces grace 306 Highland Avenues’ hallways and classrooms in the form of freshmen, and well-traveled seniors move on to bigger and better things. Despite this, Mystic Valley’s graduates always leave an important mark on the school by way of their example and their endeavors in the future. As such, although the environment at MV might be directly impacted by those who currently make up the student body, it has evolved and continues to be affected by the people who came before them.

Melinda Taylor graduated from Mystic Valley as a member of the class of 2015, and she is currently attending Gordon College in Wenham, MA, majoring in psychology and music. She was kind enough to share a few of her experiences and some advice with the current MV students. This is what she had to say in a recent interview:

What do you miss the most about MVRCS?

One thing I miss the most about Mystic Valley is the familiarity of the people you see every day. In high school, I practically knew, or at least recognized, everyone who I would pass by in the hallway. Now, things are a lot different, because not only are there a lot of people at my school, but I started out college knowing only a couple of them. I guess my main point is that I really cherish the friends I have from Mystic Valley, I've known them for so long, and we know each other so well- thirteen years is a long time.

If there is one change that has affected you the most since graduating, what is it?

The main thing that has affected me the most since leaving Mystic Valley is being able to live on my own and having a lot more independence. 

How are academics after having taken IB classes? 

After having taken IB classes, academics have been very manageable. There’s a lot of work to get done every night (and in my case, lots of piano practice), but the workload hasn't been overwhelming. One things I've continued to do is plan out my week in a planner beforehand. It has helped me so much. Right now I am taking a musical theory class, old testament, and Calculus I (shout out to Mr. Bush!).

Are you part of any groups or sports right now?

Currently I'm part of Gordon's Wind Ensemble. I'm playing second trombone and so far it has been a gratifying experience. 

How is living in a dorm?

Living in a dorm has been a great experience so far. It’s definitely something that takes some time adjusting to, but being able to live in a dorm with a roommate in college is definitely something I would recommend.