b'begging them to take me back home. The Orme communi-ty witnessed my struggles and tried to help and support me. The issue was within me. I couldnt let them help because I believed the only solution was to return home.Nevertheless, they never stopped being there for me. They continued to support, comfort, and assist me in accepting the change. It helped, I began to trust them, and they proved my trust was justified. Everyone was there for me: students, faculty members, and even Ormes animals. Faculty members talked to me, provided whatever I needed, offered advice, and comforted me when I couldnt even breathe, crying for hours. I found excellent friends and start-ed living with my best friend. I began to have fun and enjoy Orme. I started engaging in sports, something I hadnt done much back home; I just practiced fancy yoga. I successfully overcame loneliness and homesickness. I excelled academ-ically and improved my physical and mental well-being. Teachers never hesitated to help me in every aspect. In all that pain, I had forgotten the reason why I came to Orme. I came for a bright future, and Im already halfway there.I was shattered. I had never felt so crushed, but I overcame it at a very young age. I can handle anything after what I have experienced, and its all thanks to Orme. Moreover, Orme taught me to appreciate everything I have had. It taught me how to live in the middle of nowhere, a quiet, unusual experience. I had always lived in the metrop-olis, in the newest, freshest buildings, but I had never stayed more than 10 hours in the countryside. Orme is a tranquil, calm, and quite isolated place. However, there are advan-tages to this; you can find yourself and work on improving. It may be in the middle of nowhere, but everything you need is at Orme.In retrospect, I no longer regret my journey to Orme. This experience, though challenging, has shaped my character, instilled in me resilience, and equipped me to face any fu-ture challenges. Orme has become more than a school; its a sanctuary where I not only learned academic lessons, but also lifes invaluable ones.degree, allowing future generations to navigate life in the 3. Thomasmost effective way possible, Thomas shares.Thomass responsibilities at Orme School are diverse and deeply rooted in his educational background and interests. Clarkin 16 He helps prospective parents and students learn about Orme, assisting them through the enrollment process. For on-campus students, he actively promotes a healthy lifestyle, drawing from his experiences to offer guidance and support. His focus on adolescent psychology, a key aspect T homas Clarkin, a proud graduate of The Ormeof his degree, makes him uniquely suited to understand and Schools Class of 2016, has embarked on a remarkableassist the students in their personal growth.journey since his time at the school. His commitmentThe unique experiences and education he received at to the schools values and mission led him back to its wel- Orme have been instrumental in preparing him for his role coming community. Today, he plays a pivotal role in shapingtoday. Living independently, managing time effectively, and the lives of Orme students as Ormes newest Advancementhoning skills such as independent living are attributes he and Admissions Associate. learned during his time at Orme and still relies on today. After graduating from Orme, Thomas pursued a degree inThese skills not only serve him well in his current position, Psychology at the University of Arizona. His college experi- but also in navigating life as a whole.ences and life observations revealed a gap in how many ofOne of the hallmarks of Orme School is its emphasis on his peers were prepared for lifes demands. This realizationcommunity and student development. Thomas contributes fueled his passion to return to Orme and make sure everyto fostering a positive and inclusive environment by actively student receives the comprehensive education he believesparticipating in school activities and volunteering. He in. I believe this is the best way to use my Psychologybelieves that leading by example and offering support as 21 THE ORME BULLETIN'