Meet the SGA: Esther Taati, Boarding Life Representative
Posted June 25, 2012
Before they skipped out for summer vacation, we took some time to get to know the newly elected members of the 2012-13 Student Government Association (SGA). Each week, we will introduce one member and share their thoughts on all things Saint Mary's. This week, Esther Taati, from Atlanta, GA, who will serve as the Boarding Life Representative.
THE BASICS
Name: Esther Taati
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Boarding/Day: Boarding Student
SGA Position: Boarding Life Representative
What activities have you been consistently or actively involved in at SMS?
Orchesis, Ladies in Blue, Vestry, Global Ambassador Program (GAP) Prefect, Chorale/Ensemble, Human Rights Alliance, Dance Club, Student Ambassadors
YOUR SMS EXPERIENCE
What is your favorite SMS tradition?
Graduation. The ceremony is, of course, amazing and beautiful, but I mainly love the fact that we take time to acknowledge each girl and her accomplishments as an individual - not many schools do that!
What has been your favorite class in the last three years? Why?
My favorite class was Origins of Western Thought. I loved being pushed not only to think deeply, but justify and defend my opinions on major topics like faith and the true purpose of life. My teacher, Dr. Esthimer, also made me feel very respected and seemed genuinely interested in me as a student, which was very refreshing! I liked the class so much that I’m hoping to complete an independent study on the topic next semester!
What class has been the most challenging class thus far? How did you survive?
The most challenging class for me was AP Chemistry. I walked into the classroom without any knowledge about the subject and it was a real struggle to get used to the work and the material. Fortunately, with the help of an awesome teacher, Dr. Greenwood, and lots of studying and focus outside of class, I not only survived, but I did pretty well!
Why did you come to SMS?
I don’t really have a great reason for coming to school here. I picked SMS because my parents and I recognized that it featured an outstanding academic program at a location which wasn’t too far from home. I hadn’t bargained for the amazing friends I’ve found here or the amount of growth the school inspired in me.
What is your leadership style?
Although I’m sometimes bossy, I’m generally not the type to give a lot of orders. I try to lead by example, and I try to get lots of ideas by talking to people around me and making new friends.
What are you most looking forward to as a member of SGA?
I’m most excited to brainstorm ideas and work to make all of the SGA-sponsored events (which really make SMS special and fun) happen without a hitch!
What are you most looking forward as a senior?
Living in Smedes!
A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOU
What are your favorite OTG (outside the gates) spots for:
-
Lunch
The Flying Biscuit in Cameron Village - I'm a brunch kind of girl! -
Shopping
Southpoint Mall in Durham but Cameron Village also has some great boutiques. -
Fun/Other
Fayetteville Street downtown always has something fun going on, and, there is also a great art festival downtown on the first Friday of every month.
What is your favorite movie – new or old?
Troy, but Obsessed is a close second!
What is usually in your Hulu queue?
Modern Family, Castle, The Bachelor(ette)
What song/album did you most recently purchase on iTunes?
Love on Top by Beyonce
What are you reading now (book, blog, magazine)?
The Pact by Jodi Picoult
ADVICE TO NEW STUDENTS
What advice would you give to a new incoming student?
Get involved! Lots of things might seem scary, but the more activities you do on campus, the faster you’ll make friends!
