Meet Diana

Where are you from?

Chisinau, Moldova

How did you first hear about Taft?

I learned about Taft through the Davis International Scholars Program, and was informed of my opportunity to enroll as a sophomore at​​ Taft through the program. 

What made you choose Taft?

There were ao many opportunities available to me at Taft! I considered the diverse representation, many activities, and incredible opportunities for class discussions. And I believe it is the community that has made my experience at Taft so special.

What is it like to live and learn with other students from across the globe?

I come from a demographically homogeneous country, so getting to meet and learn from people from all over the world challenged many of my preconceived opinions. I think the diversity at Taft is most reflected in the English and History discussions in the classes I have taken while here. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have learned more about how different cultural upbringings shape an individual’s beliefs, and how such beliefs are reflected in today’s society. At Taft, I have also enjoyed the company of some amazing people and formed a rather diverse friend group representative of many cultures and countries. 

What activities do you participate in on campus?

Outside of my classes, I am most involved in the Dance Department. During my three years at Taft, I participated in all of the Fall Musical productions and Winter Dance Showcases. I love the adrenaline on stage and it has been very humbling to receive the support of the Taft community for each one of our shows. I am also a residential monitor in Mac House, an I-Block teacher, a new student mentor, and the co-head of the European Affinity Group (a member of the Alliance Coalition). This fall I also completed the GLI (Global Leadership Institute) Program, a partnership between Taft and Waterbury public schools to create projects tackling local issues. My partner and built a website with resources for English Language Learners as our GLI project.

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

It is rather hard to answer this question, considering how much I have enjoyed all of my classes at Taft. Junior year I most enjoyed AP US History and AP UM English. Senior year, my favorites have to be Honors Humanities, Honors Seminar in Biology (Post-AP Biology), and Japanese Language Through Culture III (a Global Online Academy course). It is thanks to my teachers and classmates that I have had such amazing classroom experiences. 

What is your favorite spot on campus?

East Dining Hall. It has naturally become a gathering spot for my friends and me; we often have long discussions during dinner or lunch there. 

What has been your most memorable Taft moment so far?

I don’t think I can summarize my Taft experience in only one moment, so here are some of my fondest memories: the day I arrived at Taft and sat on the Jig Patio fighting my jet lag to watch the sunset; Hotchkiss Day sophomore year; playing chess and Jeopardy in HDT 3 or ISP on Saturday nights; reuniting with my friends junior year after online classes; receiving a bouquet of tulips from my advisor on my 18th birthday; the discussion we had in our last AP US History class; and Super Sunday senior year. 

What do you love most about Taft?

I love how close-knit and supportive the community is. I think Taft is a place where you can be yourself and everyone will be there for you. I love hearing about my friends’ accomplishments and always encourage them. 

What does it mean to be a Rhino?

To be a Rhino means to work selflessly and give back to the community. It means pursuing your goals while reflecting the school motto “Non ut Sibi” in your daily activities. It means an act of kindness every day, dedication, and passion.