Friday Feature: Elijah Melwani '22, international boarding student
Learn more about international boarding student Elijah Melwani '22.
Elijah Melwani ‘22 is a boarding student from Chile and India. He started at Rabun Gap in his eighth-grade year and chose to attend Rabun Gap because of its strong Christian heritage and because he was looking for a great college-prep school. Outside of classes, he is heavily involved in soccer and the ESP program.
What is the best part about being a boarding student at Rabun Gap?
I have learned to be independent. I enjoy and thank God that I can live and experience so many different cultures and countries.
What is it like to be an international student? What would you say to prospective students from other countries who might be thinking about attending Rabun Gap?
It is hard at first and I really missed my family. I still miss them, but the teachers and my classmates have been so comforting that I forgot about missing my family. It will probably be one of the best experiences and years you will have in your life. It really changes the way you think and you will make friends for life.
What makes Rabun Gap special to you?
Rabun Gap is special because of the caring teachers, the way people treat you (there is no bullying), and the athletics. Also, the fine arts and studies are the best I have ever received.
What are your plans after you graduate? What are your plans for college?
I want to play D1 soccer and study medicine at the best colleges in the USA. If God wants it, then I would definitely love to work to get to the professional soccer level.
What is your favorite memory from Rabun Gap so far?
My best memories at Rabun Gap are when I meet up with my guys in the dorm when we come back from summer break. Another favorite memory is whenever I wear that white or green jersey - it is always an honor to wear the jersey and represent this wonderful community.
What advice would you give to another student who just came to board here at Rabun Gap?
Be prepared to work really hard. Do not break the Honor Code and never bring alcohol or drugs to school. My greatest advice would be to always put God first and then all will fall in place. Put your priorities straight. If it’s studies and sport, do that before you do anything else.
Which Rabun Gap teachers and/or coaches have had the biggest impact on you during your time here so far?
The teachers and coaches who have had the greatest impact on me are Mrs. Beale, Mr. Noff, Coach Amani, Coach Berges, Coach Williams, Mrs. Jenkins
Tell us something interesting about yourself that we don’t otherwise know.
I know how to fly airplanes in a professional flight simulator. I have been doing it for 11 years. I also play the drums.
What interests do you pursue outside of the classroom? Do you have any hobbies?
I would consider myself a workaholic. I love training in the weight room and on the field for my sport, so that is also like a hobby for me. I also love to play flight simulator on my computer. I love to relax with my friends and listen to music.
Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School
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Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is a private, coeducational day and boarding school for grades Pre-K through 12. Centrally located between Atlanta, GA, Greenville, SC, and Asheville, NC, we prepare young people for college, career, and a lifetime of leadership and service.
