Get to know the Upper School Student Ambassador Board Members as they reflect on their time at LJCDS.
These dedicated leaders are the heart and soul of our student ambassador program. Representing the diverse perspectives of our school community, they play a vital role in guiding our over 100 admission ambassadors through a variety of projects and activities. From leading campus tours and connecting with prospective families to organizing cross-divisional events, our board members are passionate about sharing their love for LJCDS and positively impacting our school.
If you would like to connect with one of our ambassadors, please email ambassador@ljcds.org.
My favorite memories at LJCDS are being part of the community service board and organizing events. I love helping the community and making a difference in others’ lives.
In my freshman year, I joined the Investment flex and Torrey Startup flex and enjoyed both. I’ve never been interested in history, but I took AP U.S. History with Dr. Halloran in my sophomore year. It was the first history class where I felt engaged the whole year and was interested because her teaching style was so dynamic.
Make your focus like a funnel: try everything in freshman year, then hone in on your interests every year after. It sounds so cliche (I’ve heard it myself a million times), but the number of opportunities at LJCDS is infinite—you make yourself a part of existing programs or create entirely new ones.
When I joined LJCDS in ninth grade, I decided to try the dance team as a sport and soon realized my passion for it! At first, I was really worried about my stage fright, but I was soon surprised by how much I enjoyed dancing in front of a crowd.
I tried cheer for the first time last year. During tryouts, I met other members, and we went over some routines. Everyone was so nice and supportive, and I immediately felt welcome.
Our community is very diverse and supportive. There are people from so many different backgrounds who, through LJCDS, come together as a family who love and support each other.
In my design and innovation classes, I have learned so many new skills. I’m shocked at the number of cool tools in the Innovation Lab. For example, we made stickers. There is a literal sticker cutter, one of the most fun tools I’ve used!
The LJCDS community stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of support. Every teacher and student encourages one another to pursue their goals, which does not happen at all schools. With a wide variety of sports and clubs, students can explore their passions and develop their skills in a nurturing environment. Teachers and coaches are especially supportive. If I ever felt upset, there was always a teacher to talk to, and the special relationships built within the community make it truly unique.
I feel like I have found myself at LJCDS. Because there are so many opportunities to try new things, I have been able to try different creative outlets and discover what I like. LJCDS has helped me learn to self-reflect and be honest. Also, the teachers and staff really want to get to know me and honestly do care about me.
My favorite memory is from this year during Little Torrey Cheer. The LJCDS cheer team works with students in the Lower School to create a routine with the Upper School cheerleaders that we perform at the Homecoming game. This year has been really special for me because I got to bond with one of the lower schoolers, and I have absolutely loved getting to work with the younger kids.
I chose LJCDS when I came to Middle School because of the opportunities that it offers and the larger range of classes and sports I got to choose from. The community is just so special and it makes school a lot more enjoyable.
There is such a strong sense of welcoming and inclusivity. There is always an activity or class that is right for you, and you get a chance to meet new people.
The teachers push me to grow as a student and as a person. They encourage me to go beyond my comfort zone, helping me explore new opportunities and achieve more. My teachers’ reassuring words and support helped me through challenging times. Their guidance has sparked curiosity, inspiring me to explore new passions and interests each year.
The LJCDS community places a strong emphasis on the relationship between faculty and students, recognizing the vital role everyone plays in establishing a collaborative environment. I value the importance of this connection, which enables meaningful partnerships between students and faculty. Everyone is dedicated to supporting students throughout their journey, guiding them toward success inside and outside of school.
I will miss doing theater shows with my best friends and competing for the school in sports, but I will always remember the people I met who helped me become the person I am.