From Shy Singer to Confident Leader: How Maya M. '23 Found Her Voice at High Meadows

“My family and I toured High Meadows at the end of sixth grade,” Maya recalled. “My parents said I would love it, and I did. The first thing I thought when I saw the wide-open Meadow with kids playing was, ‘I’m going to have fun.’” 

 

In the classroom at High Meadows, Maya leaned into her curiosity and became comfortable saying “yes” to new opportunities. “What challenged me at High Meadows were the different opportunities such as band and rock band. I had a chance to express myself in the Advanced Rock Band class and try new things. The opportunity to explore different avenues allowed me to discover my interests and passions.” 

One of her most influential mentors was Mr. West, the music and band teacher. Initially a shy singer, Maya credits him with helping her find her voice. “I was content to just play piano, but Mr. West encouraged me to sing. He built my confidence at a young age, and now I use my voice daily.” That confidence led Maya to pursue a vocal program at Berklee College of Music this summer. 

Academically, Maya excelled at HMS. For her eighth-grade capstone project, she explored voting rights under the guidance of Mr. Wolf, diving deep into research and producing work that went far beyond the expected. She also participated in debate with Mr. West and gives back to the debate program today, judging Atlanta Urban Debate League (AUDL) competitions. Today, politics and humanities are two of her main interests, and this summer, she will participate in a two-week policy and law program at Emory University. 

 

Maya recently wrapped up her sophomore year at The Galloway School. “I could not have been prepared better for high school than I was by my High Meadows teachers,” she said. At Galloway, Maya is actively involved in musical theatre. “My time in the band and working on vocals with Mr. West set me up for what I do today. I learned electric guitar, keyboard, saxophone, and baritone, and even went to Midfest at the University of Georgia where we worked with musicians from peer schools to perform in a concert. I am trying out new instruments and have High Meadows to thank for my love of music and performing.” 

 

Maya’s passions are not limited to academics, music, and politics. High Meadows instilled in her a strong sense of ethical leadership and environmental stewardship, and both remain at the forefront of her mind today. “Even if it was just planting new plants in the garden, we were always being upstanders for people and the planet. High Meadows taught me how I can impact the world, and being eco-friendly is important to me,” Maya said. 

Outside of school, Maya volunteers at her local library, enjoys thrifting, and runs for both fitness and fun. She’s already completed a Tough Mudder race and has her sights set on the Peachtree Road Race and Women’s Health Run at Northside Hospital. This summer, in addition to vocal camp and a two-week policy and law program at Emory University, she’ll begin her college search across the Southeast. 

Although brief, Maya’s time at High Meadows School prepared her for high school success and helped her grow into a confident performer who embraces challenges and thrives. Do you want your child to learn in a nurturing environment that includes both dynamic classrooms and 42 acres of woods, forests, and meadows? At High Meadows, students receive the tools they need to flourish in high school and beyond. Plan your visit today and see how High Meadows can help your child grow, thrive, and lead with confidence.