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 Jaylen Patel, a 14-year day student from Rome whose Senior Ventures project has involved encouraging entrepreneurship on campus in a variety of ways, such as the Upper School Product Project and the Pre-K to 8 Pitch Project Competition.
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
Wisdom, Service, Honor. I think Darlington has really shaped me well with these values.
What song reminds you of high school?
"Mundian To Bach Ke” - Panjabi MC
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
“Formula 1 Drive To Survive”
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Chipotle
What house are you a member of?
Moser House
What are you involved in?
I am the yearbook editor-in-chief, Arts Council president, an Advancement Ambassador, in Senior Ventures, and in the Golf Academy.
If you play sports, who is your favorite coach and why?
Golf - Mr. Willerson. However, I will not play on the team this year.
If you are involved in fine arts, what is your favorite activity and why?
I am not really too sure, but I love it when the arts are included in house activities because it is super fun to connect with all the dorm students.
What's your favorite place on campus and why?
I think the campus is breathtaking. However, my favorite part of the campus is the lake because I have made a lot of memories there, such as letting my fish that I won from the fair free in the lake (We love Pez), walking around the lake, going fishing for Hatchet Day in fifth grade, and hanging out with my friends over the years.
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
Mr. Hudson - he is super fun and makes class super engaging and entertaining. Mr. Pender - because he cares a lot and is always helpful. Ms. West - because she is super supportive and reliable. Ms. Shores- because she is super fun to talk to and makes history fun to learn. Ms. Haynes - because she is very good at teaching science.
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
My favorite part of Darlington is the opportunities they give us and how we are essentially set up for success.
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
I have had the opportunity to connect with and make friends with students from all around the world, and that is something I will forever be grateful for.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
I came in pre-K, but Darlington has shaped me into a respectful, honorable, and selfless person.
What is your dream job?
I want to own a commercial real estate development and management company that also deals with lending.
Click here to see more #SeniorSpotlights from the Class of 2026!
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.
