Education: My journey to waldorf

Coming from Afghanistan, my school experience was very different.

Our classrooms were packed—usually with about 50 students each. Across the country, we all wore the same national school uniform up until high school. The school day only lasted three hours, not because it was easier, but because there were too many students and not enough time or resources to go around.

When I came to the U.S. and started school at Emerson Waldorf School in Chapel Hill, everything changed.

It was scary, at first. When I had been in Pakistan I had the highest possible English scores, I figured I’d be perfectly fine in the U.S. It was so much harder than that, though. The kids at school all had accents and used slang that I didn’t know. I had to keep asking what their texts meant, like what is ‘OMG’ or ‘LOL’? At first, I didn’t have any friends and sat alone at lunch. The difference in language made it hard, but I wanted to make friends. Luckily, the people at Emerson Waldorf are so nice. Now, I have lots of friends at school and through scouting.

The people weren't the only difference, though– school itself was a big readjustment. For one, the school day is much longer. But the way we learn here is really different, too. Emerson Waldorf uses a block schedule, which means we focus deeply on five subjects each day instead of rushing through many. It helps us actually take time to understand things and explore all aspects.

What stood out to me most was how supportive the environment is. Back home, there wasn’t really time to ask questions or have personal attention. Here, that’s encouraged. The teachers aren;t just professionals, they are a friend and a guide. They will literally tell me: “You can always ask for help.” And they mean it.

Beyond academics, the Emerson community has been one of the biggest surprises. It’s not just about grades—it’s about growing as a person. People really support each other here. They want you to be curious, to be expressive, and to be yourself.

One of my favorite parts of the day is music class. Honestly, this place is almost like an art school. Emerson Waldorf is nationally recognized for its arts program, and I feel lucky to be part of it.

And then there are the events—like the Festival of Courage. The first time I saw it, I was so confused—it was a total culture shock! But now, it’s one of the things I love most. This year, I got to be a butterfly, and it meant so much to be part of something so joyful and symbolic.

Looking back, I never imagined school could feel like this. Emerson Waldorf isn’t just a school—it’s a place where I feel seen, heard, and supported in every way. And for that, I’m really grateful.

See a video of Tabby describing her journey here (instagram) or here (facebook)