A Darlington student is made up of many things. None of which is average. We help our students develop their interests, passions and pursuits, because we believe every individual has something to contribute. We also believe that only when you're 100% you, are you 100% Darlington.
Here at Darlington, every student’s path is different. We think that's a good thing.
Let’s get to know Kathleen Hwang, a three-year boarding student from South Korea who has spearheaded several iPeriods, including dance, sewing and entrepreneurship.
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
Connections, Swans, Rome
What song reminds you of high school?
“2002” - Anne Marie
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
“Gossip Girl”
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Honeycream Gelato
What house are you a member of?
Regester!
What are you involved in?
Regester House residential head prefect, lacrosse captain, Darlington Asian Student Union co-founder, DECA founder, Student Activities Committee, Hugs & Threads iPeriod sponsor, Green Team
If you play sports, who is your favorite coach and why?
Mrs. Collier was my lacrosse coach and English teacher. She is a warm-hearted person who not only wants to see us succeed on the field but in every aspect of life. She truly makes an effort to connect with us on a personal level. I first started playing lacrosse when she became the new coach—before that, I had never even heard of the sport. Her passion and dedication are unwavering, and she genuinely cares about our entire team, regardless of the outcome.
If you are involved in fine arts, what is your favorite activity and why?
Visual arts. I have taken three art classes at Darlington, but I have been painting as long as I can remember. I love how art allows me to share my personal experience with a larger audience, provoking thought and empathy. Unlike any other medium, art captures the emotions, thoughts and colors like we are in that moment.
What's your favorite place on campus and why?
Regester Lounge—it holds sentimental value. Giggling all night while having sleepovers, talking with people I never talked to before, sharing different cultural foods. Dorms are boarding students’ second homes, and since we all share the same experience of living away from our families, we can form deeper and more understanding bonds. Throughout my years at Darlington, I have worked to foster a home away from home where everyone is welcomed and included—a place where we fill and build together.
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
Ms. Kuckhoff. As a teacher, she always encourages us to find answers on our own through experiments and investigations, but she is also an advisor and a friend. She is incredibly friendly and supportive, and her passion for both art and science is truly inspiring. She not only helped me discover joy in science but also brought me a step closer to my vision as an artist by guiding me in creating an environmental installation for display in the Student Center. She exemplifies the true role of teachers and schools—fostering creativity and collaboration rather than relying solely on standardized testing and textbook learning.
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
The diverse and distinct communities within Darlington—there’s a place for students of all different interests and backgrounds. Teachers are always incredibly supportive in helping us bring our initiatives to life, and there is an abundance of resources available for students to use freely. For me, iPeriods are especially meaningful—they are designated times when I can step into the role of a teacher, sharing my passions with other students. I have hosted dance, sewing, and entrepreneurship iPeriods, and I love how iPeriod allows students to dive deeper into their interests or explore something new, whether it’s a hobby, an academic pursuit, a collaborative project, or simply a moment of relaxation.
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
Darlington’s unique housing system feels like a blend of Hogwarts and a sorority. Before coming here, I never imagined myself painting banners, choreographing routines, or cheering people on to eat as fast as they can. Each house's unique tradition and faculties is what makes Darlington boarding unique and gives a taste of both the deep southern culture and diverse customs.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
I have become a lot more reserved and developed skills to better engage in social life that goes beyond high school.
What is your dream job?
I hope to work in the business field of fashion and design.
Click here to see more #SeniorSpotlights from the Class of 2025!
Find out how you can be 100% Darlington, too, by requesting a personal campus tour at www.darlingtonschool.org/visit or contacting admission@darlingtonschool.org.
