Welcoming a New Student Life Counselor to The Academy: Tori Kingdom

Last week, the Indiana Academy welcomed a new residential staff member: Tori Kingdom. Originally from England, she has called Indiana home for the last 15 years. She even attended The Academy herself and graduated in 2014. In her free time, she loves to read, travel, and watch Formula One.

As Tori adapts to her role as an SLC, I was able to sit down and learn more about her from her perspective. Throughout our conversation, she shared her impressions of the school from a new outlook, what guided her to become an SLC, advice for students, and future goals for this school year. 

First Days at The Academy 

After being at the Academy for a few days, Tori has felt positive support from staff and students. She noted her first couple of days have been “pretty good” because everyone has been “nice and welcoming.”

Influence 

Tori’s decision to become an SLC stems from her residential experience in high school. Remembering that time, she recalls positively the influence her SLCs had on her. When asked why she wanted to become an SLC, she noted that she was inspired by the SLCs she had while she was a student at the Academy and the support they gave her, impacting her to do the same. 

Advice for Students 

Being in the same shoes as students at one point, Tori knows what can be done to create an even more positive experience at the Academy. Based on her own experiences, Tori gave some advice to current students. “Take risks, try new things, take care of yourself, and have fun. Also, Berrywinkle is always a good idea.” 

Changes in School 

Since Tori once lived in Wagoner, as many students do, she knows what has changed about the school. Tori shared the differences she has noted so far: “Not much has changed. Study session has changed a lot. Study session used to be eat, sleep, or study, no phone. You were only able to do schoolwork on laptops, it was very strict.” 

Goals 

Tori is looking forward to her time as an SLC. She wants to create an atmosphere like the one her SLCs created. She shared some goals and prospects for the future school year. “I want to have fun, get to know everyone, and leave my mark on my group of kids.”