Hey everyone! My name is Callie Freeman, and I’m from the great city of Louisville. When I’m not here at Gatton, you can find me at a congressional debate competition, orchestra concert (I play the harp!), outside with my Australian Shepherd Missy, or someplace where I can read a Jane Austen novel (the best author EVER, right?). Otherwise, it’s pretty difficult to think of times when I’m not here Gatton, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. From academics to research to study abroad, Gatton has given me the opportunities – and friends – of a lifetime.

One of the things that makes Gatton so different from traditional high school is all of the opportunities we have to do research. My very first semester, I participated in the Genome Discovery and Exploration Program, where I isolated and genetically analyzed my own unique bacteriophage – Pemberley (it takes a Jane Austen fan to get this one). Later, I was awarded a Research Internship Grant to study the mitoNEET protein and its application in diabetes treatment at the University of Louisville over the summer.

Gatton also provides us with the opportunity to explore outside of the STEM world. This summer, I spent three weeks learning all things British literature in England. Filled with books, tea, history, Harry Potter, castles, red phone booths, Shakespeare, and sheep, the trip could not have been any better. I definitely made memories that will last a lifetime.

As incredible as all the academic, research, and travel opportunities that Gatton offers are, some of my favorite memories here are the ones made staying up late with friends, chilling on weekends, and laughing with my roommate. It is no exaggeration when I say that I truly love every part of Gatton. It really is my second home, and I can’t wait for the new Juniors to experience it.

By: Callie Freeman

And they’re off! Today, on our first day of official touring, we Kentuckians relished some true British classics. After an English breakfast at the Nutford House, Dr. Rutledge presented a “crash course” on British History. Beginning with the arrival of Julius Caesar in 55 B.C. and concluding with the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, Dr. Rutledge left no historical stone unturned and gave us an excellent frame of reference for our three weeks’ studies. Following his history lecture, Dr. Rutledge delved into perhaps one of my very favorite British literary topics. Drum roll please… The life and works of none other than Jane Austen! As a proud member of the Jane Austen Society of North America and long time Jane enthusiast, I am happy to report that Dr. Rutledge’s presentation didn’t disappoint. Empire waists, English country dancing, love, marriage, Anne Elliot, Captain Wentworth… Need I say more? The morning lecture was a delight.

Following a brief lunch break in the beautiful garden of the Nutford House, we began our journey to the Harry Potter Studio Tour site. For Harry Potter die-hards as well as those who are less familiar with J.K. Rowling’s beloved series, the tour was magnificent – complete with flying cars, wands, wizards and even the iconic butter beer. A tribute to the actors, screenwriters, makeup artists, designers, production assistants and all of those who work on the classic movies, the tour showcases all of the hard work and talent that really makes the movies come to life. And a quick walk through the exhibits, which display thousands of props, lifelike sets and dazzling costumes, shows that making a Harry Potter film truly does take a village – or, more accurately, a city! A trip to the Harry Potter Studio will prove that the Harry Potter series really is a British classic, loved by those of all ages and from all parts of the world.

By the end of our “magical” afternoon, we all were ready for dinner, and a quick Google search of “good food near the Nutford House” gave us plenty of scrumptious choices. After eventually settling on the “Spaghetti House,” we sat down to some delicious mozzarella, calamari, olives and other authentic Italian food. A viewing of Jane Austen’s Persuasion and a trip back out into the city for some gelato completed a day filled with some of the great British icons. That nine hour plane ride really was worth it!