Student Profile: Kite Stribling '25

Meet Kite Stribling '25! Kite is a day students from Sautee Nacoochee, GA and is on the honor roll, a member of the lacrosse team, and heavily involved in the arts program. She has been at Rabun Gap for five years and enjoys working with our Lower School students.

Why did you choose to attend Rabun Gap?

I chose to attend Rabun Gap because as a student I thrive in the small, personal environment that Rabun Gap provides. I also fell in love with Rabun Gap’s amazing arts program which is perfect for me because I love performing. Another favorable aspect of Rabun Gap was the diverse student body. This was very important to me. All these things led me to Rabun Gap and I am very glad I made the decision to attend.   

Rabun Gap is special to me because as I walk down the hall or as I eat lunch, I am surrounded by a chorus of different languages and cultures. Another special thing about Rabun Gap is the constant support from  the faculty and my peers. I know that there is always someone in my corner ready to help me with anything from homework to personal issues.

  

What is your favorite memory from Rabun Gap?

I have been making memories at Rabun Gap for 5 years, so I have so many amazing memories to choose from, but when choosing my favorite memory, only one came to mind. In the middle school, we had a program called “houses.” Every student, 6th-8th, was a part of a house. Houses encourage students to make intergrade relationships and foster a family environment. Each year the houses would compete in a long relay race called Marathon. When I was in 6th grade, I was assigned to compete in the pie eating portion of Marathon. I had never done pie eating before, but I had so much fun. I ended up being the fastest pie eater and my house won the whole race. It was a great day. 

This trimester I am playing varsity girls lacrosse, but the past two trimesters I have participated in the musical and the cirque show. I love the bonds I have made within my team and with my co-actors. Every time the trimester changes and we begin a new extracurricular activity I know I will meet new people who will soon become my friends. 

My favorite class is Humanities because it combines two things I love, history and English. This class challenges and engages me consistently. I also like the teacher, Mr. Jump, who is always willing to crack a joke while still holding the class accountable. The other students in my class ensure that every time we meet will be memorable. 

The teacher that has made the biggest impact on me was my middle school mandarin teacher, Mr. Heselton. Mr. Heselton has made the biggest impact on me because he understood how to connect with students and was always a constant support system for all who need it. I have so many amazing memories with Mr. Heselton. In 6th grade, we went to his house to cook Chinese food with his mother in law. He also piloted a digital board game which some other students played during COVID-19. Mr. Heselton taught me to work smarter not harder. This piece of advice will take me through life and I have Mr. Heselton to thank for it.  

I would tell them to truly consider Rabun Gap as an option for their education because I have grown so much as a student and as a person at this school. Rabun Gap is not only a school, it is an experience. The Rabun Gap experience includes everything from preparing for colleges to equally strong arts and athletic programs. All of these things have helped me flourish and become the person I am today.

Outside of the classroom, I work with the Lower Schoolers in the library. Once they have picked out a book, I help check them out and assist them in any way needed. I love to interact and serve the Rabun Gap community and this is one way I can make a difference. I love it.