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 Natalia Sands, a four-year boarding student from The Bahamas whose favorite place on campus is her dorm room in Thornwood House.
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
Community, Honor, Honesty
What song reminds you of high school?
"Good Life" by OneRepublic
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
“NCIS”
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Doug’s Deli
What house are you a member of?
Thornwood House
What are you involved in?
Softball, dorm leader, lacrosse manager, theater, Black Student Union
If you play sports, who is your favorite coach and why?
Coach Harris is my favorite coach because of the way she pushes me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the field. Her dedication, encouragement, and belief in my potential have helped me grow as an athlete and as a person.
If you are involved in fine arts, what is your favorite activity and why?
Theater as stage crew because I enjoy working behind the scenes to bring a production to life through set design and costuming. It’s rewarding to see all the hard work come together on stage, knowing everyone's efforts help create a seamless and immersive experience for the audience.
What's your favorite place on campus and why?
My dorm room is my favorite place on campus because it’s my personal space where I can relax, unwind, and recharge after a long day. It’s a cozy and comfortable environment that feels like a home away from home, making it the perfect place to focus, de-stress, and be myself.
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teachers are Ms. Shores and Ms. Haynes because they inspire me every day to be the best person I can be. They encourage me to treat others with kindness and love, no matter the situation, because you never know what someone is going through, and even a small act of kindness can make a big difference. They also encourage me to push through hardships and adversity, reminding me that even though a situation may seem dark in the moment, there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
Community is my favorite thing about Darlington because it creates a supportive and welcoming environment where everyone feels like family. The strong connections between students, teachers, and staff make every day meaningful, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging that makes Darlington feel like home.
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
An experience that I had at Darlington that I would not be able to have anywhere else is RUMPUS. I like RUMPUS because it’s a fun and energetic tradition that brings everyone together for friendly competition and unforgettable memories. It’s a chance to bond with friends, show school spirit, and be part of something exciting and unique at Darlington.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
The way Darlington has helped me grow is my favorite part of being here, as it has shaped me into a stronger person and leader. The support from students, teachers, and staff has allowed me to build confidence, take on new challenges, and develop meaningful relationships that have made my time here truly impactful.
What is your dream job?
I would like to oversee environmental outreach programs for companies.
If you have already committed to a college, please let us know which one you will be attending.
I have not committed to a college yet.
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.
