Estella's Speech

Estella Chancey - Graduation Address - June 10, 2020

Hello, my name is Estella Chancey, and I came to Brandeis Marin in the 5th Grade. As most of you know, I moved from Australia, where I had spent the first 11 years of my life. I went to The King David School, I made many great friends, and expected to graduate from that school. When my family decided to relocate to San Francisco, I was upset but also excited for a brand new experience. 

When going around and shadowing at different schools, I liked the other schools, but Brandeis stood out to my family and me. The environment was really beautiful, the teachers were so welcoming. The kids were happy to have a shadow, and everything about the school was just so inviting. Pamela was the first person I talked to at the school. From the moment I walked in to the moment I walked out, she had a big smile on her face, and that made me really happy.

6th Grade was a really difficult transition for me. I was upset, and I thought about my friends in Australia. I would get mad about very little things. I wanted to go back home. As I was having a difficult time, some friends and teachers recommended I go see Sasha the counselor. At first, I wasn't keen on the idea, but once I got in the room, my thoughts changed. The room was very cute and calming. Sasha is one of the most caring, soothing people I know. I want to thank her so much for all the times I needed help. Sasha let me talk to her, cry it out, and even play with sand or draw. It was a very safe and comfortable space for me.

My teachers at Brandeis have always been so patient with me. They have also been very flexible with the work. If I was having some trouble with an assignment, they would help me and/or give me an extra day. They have also taught me to ask for help and reach out. That is a really important thing to do because in High school, the teachers aren't going to chase after you to get your work done or ask if you need any help like Brandeis.

 I’ve made some really awesome memories with my friends at Brandeis. The Israel trip, for example, was one of the best trips I've ever been on. I loved experiencing a new place with my friends. Staying in hotel rooms, going for dinner, getting to walk around and buy our own food, it was a once in a lifetime trip. Other memories include sleepovers, hang-outs, field trips, and facetimes.. It all adds up to a really good middle school experience. I am so lucky to have all these people around me who care about me. 

Some people know that I could be a little funny or crazy sometimes because I like making myself and my peers laugh, and I like being silly. I'm so happy that my friends at Brandeis find me funny and they put up with my craziness. They accept me for who I am, no matter what choices I make. I can't wait for High-school, but i'm going to miss each and every one of my classmates and teachers. I will always have memories in the back of my head that I will cherish and remember, just like I do with my friends from Australia.