DSHA's Impact on Me

To welcome the Class of 2028 at Dasher Kickoff, Emily Fricker, DSHA '24, shared her journey as a Dasher. You can watch Emily's remarks here.

One thing we all know to be true is that DSHA is an outstanding college-prep school and the academics and support are fantastic. But what you may not know is that DSHA is that and so much more. I am so excited to talk to you about the "so much more!"

Entering DSHA my freshman year, I was beyond excited. It was my top choice and influenced by the positive experiences of my sisters who had previously attended and cherished the school. When I embarked on this new chapter of my life, I envisioned a continuation of the vibrant community I had become acquainted with through DSHA's Community Theatre Works shows during middle school. However, the reality of freshman year unfolded differently than I imagined.

I started my freshman year fall of 2020, which we all know presented some unexpected challenges due to COVID. Despite these circumstances, I embraced the situation and continued my freshman year, though with a degree of timidity. I sensed that everyone had their place at DSHA, particularly among the upperclassmen and felt compelled to find my place within the community. The academic rigor added an element of intimidation but also served as a motivation to excel.

Taking a measured approach, I focused on academics and engaged in various activities within the school such as joining the Service Team and participating in Campus Ministry. As the second semester unfolded and we returned to a five-day school week, the DSHA I had envisioned began to materialize. I discovered that the teachers were willing to offer support, and I sought their guidance, finding it to be an encouraging aspect of my academic journey. The spring musical, Godspell, became a memorable milestone, allowing me to reconnect with my passion, make new friends, and enhance my self-confidence.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, DSHA continued to provide me with opportunities for personal growth, and I concluded my freshman year on a positive note. Reflecting, I realized DSHA had propelled me to step out of my initially timid and apprehensive self in significant ways.

Post-freshman year, my growth continued as I dove into Campus Ministry, Fine Arts, and Service, laying the foundation for developing the five qualities of a DSHA graduate: Woman of Faith, Self-Advocate, Critical Thinker, Communicator, and Leader. Sophomore year brought further growth with high school starting to feel more challenging and my schedule becoming busier. Yet the unwavering support of teachers and staff remained constant, providing a crucial pillar of assistance and advice.

Having engaged in extracurriculars as an underclassman, I dedicated my junior and senior years to growing as a leader within these activities. As a junior, I became a Mass music leader guiding the school in worship during all-school Masses, Faith Fridays, and other events. DSHA retreats stand out as a highlight in the curriculum, and I had the pleasure of being selected as a senior retreat coordinator, contributing to the planning process and thoroughly enjoying the experience. In my junior and senior years, I also took on the role of a Dasher mentor, aiding freshmen in getting comfortable with DSHA and bridging the transition from grade school to high school. Lastly, participating in Angelaires provided me with the opportunity to sing, dance, and perform alongside a talented group of individuals. Being elected president this year has been such an honor, allowing me to lead the group positively, organize enjoyable activities, and set an example for others.

With that all being said, eighth graders, I want to talk to you specifically: I remember what it was like to sit in your seat at this time, and I know it can feel nerve-racking and overwhelming. I never would have imagined when I was your age I would be able to not just get involved in the activities that I love but also become a leader. It was only through the encouragement of teachers and staff and the love and support of my fellow Dashers that I have grown into the person I am today.

When I walked through the doors on the first day of freshman year, I had a lot of hopes for my high school experience, but I didn't necessarily have the confidence. Now, as I'm preparing for college, I am especially grateful for my high school experience which has helped me to develop into a confident and capable young woman prepared for the next chapter of my education.

One thing I know to be true is that your experience will look different than mine, and that's OK. In fact, that is the beauty of going to a school that develops all sorts of passions and gifts, and I can't wait to see what your path will look like four years from now.

Recognizing the significance of an all-girls environment, I understand that the teenage years are formative, a time to focus on self-discovery and personal development. DSHA excelled in guiding me through this crucial period. Specifically allowing for opportunities to grow in my faith and make it my own, something I am choosing for myself every day. The combination of a faith-based and all-girls environment fostered a unique atmosphere where we acknowledge our gifts from God and get to see those gifts in our classmates. The supportive faculty, staff, and sisterhood facilitate the exploration of our talents and places in the world, creating an unparalleled transformative and empowering experience —  and I can't wait for you to have the same! Welcome to the Dasher sisterhood! I am so glad you are here!