We recently caught up with Groves Academy Alumna Sarah Anderson.
“Groves Academy changed the trajectory of my life and the lives of so many others. I can’t put into words how unbelievably grateful I am for my time as a student. The family atmosphere of Groves stays with you for years to come and provides you with friends that will last a lifetime.”
How long were you at Groves Academy and what were a few key things you learned?
I attended Groves Academy from 6th through 12th grade. During my time at Groves I learned two major lessons that I have carried with me throughout the past seven years (since graduating from Groves):
The first lesson I learned was advocating for myself. Advocacy is crucial when learning how to be successful in college and beyond. Groves taught me to ask for help and I learned that there is nothing wrong with asking for help.
The second lesson I learned was how to work with my learning style, not against it. Groves does a great job teaching students how to work with their individual learning styles. I also learned that when learning something new, it might take you a few tries to get it right and that is OK.
What did you do after Groves?
After graduating from Groves Academy I attended the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I double majored in Marketing Communications and Screen & Stage Arts (video production). After graduating from college in the spring of 2018 I accepted a position at United and Natural Foods Incorporated as the Digital Shopper Marketing Specialist. In this job I work with my team to acquire and implement digital campaigns on our digital platforms.
How did your time at Groves prepare you for your next steps?
I always tell people that without Groves, I wouldn’t be in the spot I am today. My time at Groves gave me the tools to be successful in college, which carried over into my career. I believe that Groves helped me build the confidence to ask for help and also make meaningful connections with staff and students. I was able to utilize leadership roles that helped me in college and beyond.
What are some of your favorite memories of Groves?
During my seven years as a student, my favorite experience was working at the school store. I learned valuable life skills while working there and enjoyed having an outlet where I was able to take on a leadership role and interact with all grade levels.
I also enjoyed taking part in the school plays such as Aladdin, The Government Inspector, and Beauty and the Beast. Learning lines and acting were especially fun challenges. Other great memories are of attending the Groves Gala throughout my entire time as a student and as an alumnus. The annual Lutsen ski trip and attending the Junior/Senior camping trips were also fun—so many fond memories about Groves.
Why do you think Groves is an important asset to the Twin Cities community?
All students deserve the right to learn, no matter their learning style. So many students from all around the Twin Cities are given the opportunity to learn and grow because of Groves. I have always admired the way Groves touches so many students and educates the community. Groves does the important work of educating students, parents, and educators about learning differences.
What would you tell a student new to Groves about the school?
Groves changes lives. Groves opens doors to so many amazing opportunities and the teachers give you tools that you can use throughout your life. I don’t believe I would be the person I am today without the amazing work that Groves does. Students with learning disabilities are not broken, we just learn differently. Groves helps you find the tools to learn and grow the way you were designed to grow.
Anything else you would like to share with the Groves community?
Groves Academy changed the trajectory of my life and the lives of so many others. I can’t put into words how unbelievably grateful I am for my time as a student.
The family atmosphere of Groves stays with you for years to come and provides you with friends that will last a lifetime.
This interview originally appeared in the 2021 Winter edition of “Connections.”
Are you a Groves Alum? We’d love to hear from you. Let us know how you’re doing!
Please contact Ashley Gotreau at 952.915.4258 or [email protected].
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