Cassidy Nino
What is your first memory of Trinity?
I distinctly remember not wanting to go to Trinity. I had lived across the street from the school almost my whole life, and I actually didn't know it was even a school until our family heard about it from friends – before that, I thought it was a prison. There was a metal gate, and I always heard the kids screaming and yelling in the courtyard. But we came to the Open House, and the first thing that stuck out to me was how kind and welcoming everyone was. I was on crutches with a broken ankle, and they were so patient, and even helped carry my crutches as I went up and down the stairs. After that visit, I couldn't stop talking about Trinity.
Do you remember the adjustment to middle school?
I remember being surprised there was homework on the first day. In public school, I was the one diving into my work. Being at a school with others who wanted to do that was different. I thought at the time that I might go somewhere else for high school. But as the end of eighth grade was approaching, I realized that I wanted to stay at Trinity. I’d learned so much, and I didn’t know if I would experience the same growth elsewhere. I was afraid I wouldn’t be as motivated at a school that didn’t require as much work for me, especially in areas like seminar, where I have to challenge myself.
What classes have you particularly enjoyed? Why?
I have loved Studio Art and Art History. I’ve continued learning about art history in my own time. I think my favorite piece is one I saw at the National Gallery: “Keelmen Heaving in Coals by Moonlight.” I love the way the light permeates the whole scene.
What do you think makes Trinity Academy distinctive?
I experienced the community at Trinity in such an incredible way this school year while my grandpa was in the hospital. All the Trinity families signed up to bring my family a meal during that difficult time so quickly that the Meal Train was filled up in less than half an hour. We had to add more slots for our church friends who wanted to help!
Do you have a favorite Trinity Academy tradition?
I have loved squads, and how much they form connections between younger and older students. Being a squad leader this year has made me realize how important it is. I remember all my squad leaders! Sophia DiPiazza was my squad leader as a sixth grader, and was really kind. I had Camille Mesquit when I was in 8th grade. She was so consistent and interested in asking how we were doing. It struck me to have a senior want to talk to me.
What extracurriculars did you participate in?
I joined Trinitones in ninth grade. I do tennis and basketball. I started tennis in ninth grade, and now I’m going to be playing in college.
What was your favorite book you read in HL?
The Brothers Karamazov has been a great experience this year. I also loved the tragedies by Sophocles and Aeschuylus. I liked discussing whether it was possible for them to escape their fates. I was interested in how fate in Greek texts is different from the Christian idea of God’s plan. The books this year followed up on different questions people have about providence and how it is that God allows evil.
What advice would you give to an incoming student about how to get the most out of Trinity?
Value the community you have. Try to get the most out of the close community and the Christian environment. One way I got to have fun and contribute this year was by baking for my class. I baked the seniors cupcakes – the flavor of their choice – for their birthdays this year. My favorite might have been pumpkin spice with homemade cream cheese frosting. I’ve also brought things for special occasions, like watching Hamlet. Food is a way that I love people.
What’s next for you? What do you hope it will be like?
I'm going to college in Minnesota at University of Northwestern - St. Paul and will be studying Nursing. One of the reasons I chose this school was because of their strong Christian community and classical education.