We’re beyond excited to celebrate Jamie, a Park Shore alumna who recently received acceptance to Harvard University! Today, we have the privilege of chatting with Jamie about her incredible journey at Park Shore and her exciting plans for the future. This interview was conducted by Dianne Vitucci, Park Shore’s Preschool Director, who is immensely proud of Jamie’s accomplishments and thrilled to share her story.

Choosing Park Shore

Dianne: What years did you attend Park Shore? Do you know how your parents chose Park Shore?

Jamie: I attended Park Shore from 2008 to 2019 for both its preschool and camp. I also returned in the summer of 2021 to be a CIT. When my parents were looking for a preschool for my brother and me, they were focused on a school that provided the newest technology and opportunities that fostered a love of STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Also, because of its convenient location, they chose Park Shore.

The Extreme STEAM Science Center is a playground of possibilities for our preschoolers. Here, they engage in hands-on activities that blend science experiments, engineering challenges, artistic expression, and mathematical concepts seamlessly. It’s not about segregating subjects but about showing children how these disciplines intertwine in the real world.

Early Beginnings

Dianne: Park Shore has been a part of your life since preschool. What are some of your favorite memories from your early years at Park Shore?

Jamie: For preschool, I vividly remember the birthday celebrations in which my mom, dad, and brother would come in and celebrate with the class. I remember sitting in the birthday chair, singing Happy Birthday, and having an amazing time. It was truly such a special experience being celebrated and feeling so cared about. For camp, I will never forget the skits and late nights that I have experienced over the many years at Park Shore. I always had so much fun with my friends and counselors as we performed and swam for the parents, also enjoying a meal together in the end.

Academic Growth

Dianne: How did Park Shore prepare you academically for the rigors of a prestigious university like Harvard? Your parents may be able to assist with this! Any quotes from your parents are welcome!

Jamie: Here’s what my mom, Caroline Mohiuddin, had to say:

“Park Shore fostered Jamie’s innate curiosity about the world and how things work from a very young age. Park Shore’s S.T.E.A.M. program and its constructivist model of learning created an environment where she was actively engaged in hands-on experiences and encouraged to explore and ask questions. I vividly remember Jamie being so excited to get to Park Shore each morning because every day was like a new adventure! Jamie has many fond memories of her time at Park Shore—the fun, the lifelong friends she made, and the kind and caring teachers and staff at Park Shore. Park Shore helped to build the foundation of her love for learning which has helped her along her successful academic journey!”

Beyond Academics

Dianne: Park Shore fosters a well-rounded education. Did you participate in any extracurricular activities or programs that shaped your interests and aspirations?

Jamie: While at Park Shore, I participated in the performing arts program as well as in many of the sporting activities. Specifically, I loved playing gaga ball and soccer, and even won 1st place in both the gaga ball and soccer tournaments during one of my senior years. While these experiences created many cherished memories, they also influenced my hobbies as I still continue to play sports, both competitively and recreationally.

A Harvard Acceptance

Dianne: Congratulations on getting into Harvard! What made Harvard stand out for you during the college application process?

Jamie: Harvard certainly stood out to me due to its unparalleled academics and opportunities. Additionally, I love the Boston area and knew that I did not want to be too far from home, therefore making Harvard a really good fit for me.

Words of Wisdom

Dianne: As you embark on this new chapter at Harvard, what advice would you give to current Park Shore students who are dreaming big?

Jamie: I would advise them to continue to dream big, however, in the process of achieving these goals, do not forget to live in the moment and enjoy the journey. Additionally, they should take in the experiences they have along this journey and use them to grow into better versions of themselves.

Looking Back

Dianne: Reflecting on your entire Park Shore experience, what are you most grateful for?

Jamie: I am most grateful for the lifelong friendships that I still have as a result of Park Shore. From its school to its camp, I have met people who have had, and who will continue to have, a long-lasting impact on me.

Future Aspirations

Dianne: What are your future goals or aspirations?

Jamie: While my intended area of focus as of right now is environmental engineering, I do not know what I truly wish to pursue in the future. However, no matter what it is, I know that I would like to be in a field of study whose focus is having a positive impact on others.

Jamie’s journey from Park Shore to Harvard is a testament to the strong foundation and supportive environment that Park Shore provides its students and campers. Her story is one of curiosity, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. We are incredibly proud of Jamie and all that she has achieved, and we look forward to seeing her continue to make a positive impact on the world. Congratulations, Jamie, and best of luck at Harvard and beyond!