An all-girls school might not be the top choice for many ninth graders, but the effects of empowerment are significant. Single-gender education enhances personal confidence, fosters moral growth, and supports overall development in various life aspects.

Senior Nina Wall, Director of Activities on ASB, described, “I think the biggest thing that I can take away from Notre Dame, is that my passion for teaching has really been reinforced and has even grown bigger. I really loved working under amazing teachers that for me, are really great role models, and they exemplify how I may want to teach in the future.”

Wall also highlighted that NDB has provided her with an unfathomable amount of opportunities for personal growth that she feels are unique to NDB.

Juniors also can witness the extent to which NDB has benefited their lives.

“I think the most significant benefit of a single-sex education and school is that your school is that safe space that you could be looking for, and you don’t have to search for that; you just are in that safe space all the time,” said Junior Aleeya Baqui.

While upperclassmen can introspectively reflect on the influence of NDB, freshmen can observe its immediate effects.

“From switching from co-ed to an all-girls school, I feel like I’ve grown in confidence. And I’m speaking up more in class than I usually would,” said Freshman Braelynn Marquez.

Head of School Meredith Essalat 98’ describes how students’ opportunities to find their voice and grow in who they are have not been diminished but grown.

“I think that the evolution is in terms of the leadership opportunities, where students can really test the waters of I am a leader and this is a safe space where I can step out on a limb and really challenge myself in that way,” said Essalat.

The overall difference an all-girl education, especially NDB, makes in its female students is undeniable, and these changes could not have happened at a co-educational school.