Meet LaZai

LaZai on the soccer field

Where are you from?

I am from Hamilton Parish, Bermuda. 

How did you first hear about Taft?

I attended a junior boarding school called Fessenden, where my goal was to attend a top prep school. I learned about Taft in looking for the best school.

What made you choose Taft?

I feel very lucky because I had a good friend who already attended Taft. He gave me a deeper insight into the community and culture of Taft, which I knew would be perfect for me.

What is it like to be an international student at Taft? 

eing an international student here is great! Taft is unique in the sense that being from a far away or distinct country is the norm. International  students continuously add new perspectives to an already diverse and ever changing communal lens. We love hearing other students’ stories and traditions and learning about their cultures, music, and food.

What activities do you participate in on campus?

 I am a school monitor, a member of the affinity group Shades, and captain of both the Varsity Soccer and Track and Field teams. I am also enjoy being involved in the many activities that are continually taking place across campus. 

What has been your favorite class so far, and why?

Stagecraft has been my favorite class because not only do you learn how to build and engineer things, each semester’s class is unique as you build unique components for that semester’s theater performances.  

What is your favorite spot on campus?

My favorite spot would have to be Prentice Dining Hall. It’s busy and filled with laughter. You’re likely to hear the whole room sing happy birthday if a birthday is announced. 

What has been your most memorable Taft moment so far?

 Most memorable moment so far has to be Friday night before Hotchkiss Day, aka Red Rally. Although the whole school meets in Bingham a few times a week, there is a different energy when the whole school is squeezed into the front half of Bingham. The school spirit, the vibes, the camaraderie is amazing. You also get to see some of your teachers and faculty let their hair down during fun and spirited performances.  

What do you love most about Taft?

What I love most about Taft is how we live or school motto, which is “Not to be served, but to serve.” 

What does it mean to be a Rhino? 

To be a Rhino means to always be open to change and new perspectives. It also means continuously striving to improve while being open and inclusive.