After graduating from Kent School in 2019, Ms. Goode joined the Admissions Office one year ago.
“It felt special,” she said of coming back. “Getting to be a part of this community again. It’s very different from where I grew up before coming to Kent. So just getting to come back and reminisce about some of those times and then watch current students go through all the traditions and see all the small details that have changed has just been exciting.” While some small details have changed— like the new layout and furniture in the Case common room— she noted that most of Kent remains recognizable.
Her typical day in the Admissions Office depends on the season. In the fall, she interviews families and prepares for travel. In the winter, she reads applications while also being an assistant coach for the girls’ varsity hockey team. Currently, she coaches strength with Dr. Zibro, whom she has known since being a student here. “That’s been another great thing, just seeing how many faculty are still here,” she said.
Ms. Goode believes her experience as a former student helps her connect with prospective families. “Prospective families appreciate having someone who can speak firsthand about the experience, and it’s nice that I have two perspectives now: one as a student and one as a faculty member. I think that helps cover a lot of bases.”
Although she does not teach a class, Ms. Goode serves as an advisor to three freshmen. “It’s been great,” she said. “It’s nice that they’re kind of all going through the same challenges, and they have a lot of similar classes. So, being able to brainstorm as a group and it’s nice when they give each other feedback too. I think it’s been really cool to see, especially how they’ve grown over the span of this year.”
When asked how she has settled into the community, Ms. Goode pointed to her dorm. “I think one of the big things that influences your time here is the dorm you’re in, and because you know it’s an it’s a smaller aspect of everyone. I’ve really enjoyed being in the Field dorm. We’ve got great students in there, and the vibes are good, so that’s definitely helped with getting adjusted.” As for the most welcoming moment, Ms. Goode mentioned spending time with fellow faculty members outside of work. She and Ms. You enjoy going on long walks after dinner, which has been a really nice way to build connections beyond the office.
Looking ahead, Ms. Goode wants to continue to grow in her role. She finds her work fulfilling and hopes to gain more confidence as she gains more experience. Her goal is to feel like she is making a real impact on the community.
For current Kent students who might want to return as faculty one day, she offered this advice: take time to truly enjoy every aspect of being at Kent. She said it’s true that when you leave, you will miss things, and it’s better to have all your memories to look back on as opposed to regretting not trying something out or putting yourself out there.
