Nicoletta Veronica Piazza ’25, a graduate from the United States and Italy, exemplifies how a TASIS education prepares students for prestigious university pathways. Her acceptance into the University of Notre Dame's pre-medical track, chosen over other notable institutions like Wake Forest and Southern Methodist University, underscores the academic rigor and effective college counseling available. Her fluency in English and Italian was complemented by an exceptionally demanding course load, including seven Advanced Placement classes. This dedication was recognized by the College Board, which awarded her both an AP Scholar with Distinction honor and an AP International Diploma. Nicoletta credits the supportive faculty at TASIS for motivating her to achieve her best, noting that their willingness to provide extra help and explain difficult concepts has equipped her with the skills and mindset to thrive in a competitive college environment. Beyond the sciences, she cultivated her talents as a visual artist, with her AP Drawing portfolio being featured in the school's annual Visual Art Exhibition, demonstrating the school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Her journey illustrates that the academic foundation provided is not just about content mastery but about fostering a resilient and inquisitive approach to learning that pays dividends in higher education.
The holistic experience at TASIS extends far beyond the classroom, a fact vividly illustrated by Nicoletta's extracurricular engagement. She actively participated in the community through the High School Choir and multiple athletic teams, including soccer, swimming, and track & field. She highlights that joining sports teams was instrumental in building friendships and integrating into the school community, especially as a new student. Furthermore, transformative programs like the Global Service Program and Academic Travel had a profound impact on her worldview. Her service trip to Kenya, in particular, helped shape her into a more empathetic and globally conscious citizen. When reflecting on her most memorable influences, Nicoletta fondly recalls a long list of teachers, including Mr. Dalton, Mr. Foster, and Dr. Sawyer-Price, emphasizing that she felt fortunate to have been taught by all of them. What she believes she will miss most is the unique environment of the school itself—a place where students from all over the world converge, creating a dynamic setting for continuous cultural exchange and learning. This aspect of daily life at TASIS is something she consciously valued and will carry forward.
