The VOICE of Stephanie Young, Class of 2010

In this episode of 'What I Really Learned at School, Alfredian Voices,' Old Alfredian Stephanie revisits King Alfred School, sharing her journey and reflections with Deborah Castillo. Stephanie recounts the heartwarming experience of reconnecting with past classmates and influential teachers.. They were pivotal in shaping not just her analytical skills but also her understanding of the world and the holistic impact of education. She elaborates on how their rigorous academic yet caring teaching methods instilled essential life skills, particularly the ability to think critically and empathetically. Having transitioned from a student to an educator herself, Stephanie spent eight years teaching before moving on to work at the Economist Educational Foundation. Here, she applies her rich educational background to develop resources that help teachers discuss current events in classrooms. She touches on the unique challenges and rewards of creating unbiased, fact-checked materials that engage young minds in meaningful discussions about global issues. Reflecting on her time at King Alfred, Stephanie praises the school's enrichment-focused approach, which allowed her to explore varied interests, particularly in the arts and music. She underscores the value of such a nurturing and holistic learning environment, comparing it to the often less flexible mainstream educational systems. Stephanie believes that this unique educational experience empowered her to enter adulthood with a strong sense of identity and purpose. Lastly, she advises current students to seize every opportunity for enrichment and exploration, as these experiences are foundational to personal and intellectual growth. Stephanie’s journey from King Alfred School to making impactful contributions in education and beyond showcases the school's lasting influence on its students, fostering a deep-seated love for learning and personal development.