Semir I. ’26 Named "The Three A's" April Honoree

At Friends, our students are encouraged to be well-rounded and explore a variety of activities in academics, athletics, and the arts. This is true in many schools, but at Friends, our schedules are designed to allow our students to participate fully in each activity. We give them time and space to pursue their academic interests and extracurricular passions. Our “freedom within structure” approach provides a clear framework that empowers student agency and fosters deep, meaningful engagement. It’s what a Friends education is all about.

This year, our Athletics Department, in partnership with faculty members, is highlighting athletes who exemplify what it means to excel in "the three A's." 

Congratulations to April’s honoree, Semir I. ’26!

Athletics: Semir I. ’26 has been involved in sports from a very young age. He grew up playing soccer; in fact, he likes to say he learned how to walk by kicking a ball, so it was his favorite sport for a long time. In addition to soccer, he explored basketball during middle school and the beginning of high school, and has played lacrosse for the past six years. Overall, he enjoys athletics because of the competition and challenge they provide. In both soccer and lacrosse, Semir has played multiple positions because of his variety of skills and versatility. This willingness and ability to play wherever the team needs him, plus the leadership lessons he's learned being both a top player and a role player, earned him a captainship on the MIAA varsity lacrosse team.

Academics: Throughout his four years in the Upper School, Semir has developed a wide range of interests, with math and Spanish becoming two of his favorite subjects. His math classes with Mr. Schlenger, Upper School Math Department Chair and teacher, have been especially impactful from sophomore to junior year, striking a great balance between being challenging and engaging. These classes have made learning complex concepts both enjoyable and rewarding for Semir. In Spanish, Semir has grown increasingly interested in the language over time, and listening to Spanish music has helped him strengthen his skills outside the classroom.

Arts: His primary involvement in the arts has been through chorus, which he has been part of since sixth grade. Chorus provides a valuable opportunity for him to relax during the school day while still staying engaged. Mr. McVey, Upper School Choral teacher, creates an environment that makes each class both enjoyable and meaningful, allowing students to grow musically every day. He also appreciates the sense of community in chorus, where students from different grades and backgrounds come together through a shared love of music.