OIEF helped me tremendously both by sponsoring more advanced academic courses and supporting the school music program. For a school its size, Orcas often offers an amazing number of Advanced Placement classes, which not only help students get into institutions of higher education but also expose them to interesting subjects. I never had as much fun in high school as I did while taking AP European History.

School music is another area where OIEF’s support was vital. Orchestra classes every morning gave me a sense of belonging for many years and were a wonderful opportunity to develop leadership skills, work with a group, and indulge my creative side. I can’t thank the program enough for giving me such a wonderful outlet to perform and especially to compose and arrange pieces.

I graduated from Orcas Island High School in 2014 and now attend Princeton University. I am currently hoping to concentrate Medieval and/or Classical studies and possibly go on to pursue graduate degrees in one or both subjects. My favorite class thus far is probably Old English.

– Brigid Ehrmantraut