Spring Branch ISD Featured News

When Nina Skae, a 2025 graduate of Spring Woods High School (SWHS), packed her bags for college, she knew she was embarking on a whole new adventure. After all, she was moving 1,000 miles away from home to attend the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). 

“College has definitely been a transition, and has been a mixed bag of emotions,” said Nina. “I was excited about this new chapter and everything that awaited me, but at the same time, I was homesick for my family and friends.”

The initial anxiety and longing for home quickly subsided as Nina began to settle into her new life in Philadelphia. She wasted no time getting involved in school activities, including joining Alpha Phi Omega, a community service fraternity, and the student government. 

“Getting involved around campus has really helped me transition,” Nina said. “Being part of these organizations has allowed me to make new memories and meet some amazing people.” 

As a speech and debate student at SWHS, Nina says that the Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Graduate—being a critical thinker, communicator, collaborator, contributor, and lifelong learner—have helped her find her way as a freshman in college. 

“I’m so fortunate to have learned the value of being a good communicator in high school,” she said. “Having those skills is crucial when you are settling into a new city and new surroundings. What I learned as an SBISD graduate has served me well so far.”   

She also credits several of her teachers with helping her be successful her first year at Penn State. She credits her calculus teacher, Charles Reed, for his “Wonder Wednesdays,” designed to show how math connects to broader disciplines like philosophy and medicine.

These connections now help Nina in her studies. She also recalls how Victoria Beard, her speech and debate coach, went above and beyond for the team, deeply committed to her students and their success.

“The amazing people I encountered while attending SBISD, the teachers, staff, and students, have truly shaped my journey, and I’m immensely grateful for each one of them,” she said. 

As Nina continues to immerse herself in university life, she’s eager to experience everything Philadelphia has to offer. 

“Philly is such a historically rich city; you can never run out of cultural festivals, places to eat, or activities to explore,” she said. 

She’s also looking forward to finding ways to give back. Through her clubs and classes, she volunteers around the city, which she describes as one of the most rewarding parts of her college journey so far.

“Volunteering has been such a meaningful way to learn about my new home,” she said. “I love being able to give back to the community while also learning about the city and its people.” 

As Nina reflects on her journey, she sees “turning the tassel” not just as a symbol of graduation, but of growth, courage, and discovery.

“Leaving home was one of the hardest things I’ve done, but it’s also been the most rewarding,” she said.

“Every day, I’m reminded that the lessons and support I had in SBISD prepared me for this moment.”

With a strong foundation and an open heart, Nina continues to make the most of her time in Philadelphia, learning, leading, and shaping her future one experience at a time.

#SBISDProud