Class of 2026 Senate Co-Presidents, Nico and Semir, believe that Friends School of Baltimore has allowed them to discover their strengths, explore their passions, and prepare them with the skills needed to succeed in life after Friends.
Nico is the head of Book Club and Mock Turtle (Upper School literary magazine), a peer tutor, a member of the Math Club and Spanish Club, plays on the varsity volleyball team, and directs and acts in the Student-Run Play. When asked what distinguishes Friends from other schools, Nico says, “The outlook on learning and education. Students do what they love, and Friends supports them. I love to act and direct, and my involvement in the Student Run Play has provided me with growth and leadership opportunities.” Thinking about how her experience at Friends will help her in the future, Nico says, “Friends has helped me grow as an organizer and a leader. I attended a different school freshman year, and I never could have imagined I would be Senate Co-President, but the community welcomed me, even as a ‘late joiner.’ They lifted me up and helped me realize my full potential. Friends changed me into who I am today, and I am so unbelievably grateful.”
Semir is the founder and head of the Muslim Student Union and Finance Club, a member of Model United Nations and chorus, and plays on the varsity soccer and lacrosse teams. Though he believes that Friends sets itself apart from other schools in many ways, it is the people and community that stand out for Semir. “At Friends, it is not an exaggeration to say that you can meet any type of person. There are people with different interests, thoughts, and backgrounds.” He explains that one thing that everyone has in common is a shared sense of community.
To foster this type of environment, Friends emphasizes the importance of responsible dialogue. “Quaker education means learning that encourages independent thinking, complemented by respectful and meaningful dialogue… all students share a strong sense of compassion and kindness that helps foster the community that I am proud to call home.” Thinking about his future, Semir says the rigorous classes, support from excellent faculty, and exposure to a variety of real-world experiences and extracurricular activities have prepared him for life after Friends.
This article is part of our 2025-2026 Guide to Baltimore Independent School Guide.
