Hernando Ardila, a proud member of the Class of 2019, is a shining example of how those values continue to shape success long after graduation.Hernando attended MAB from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, excelling academically across a wide range of subjects. His greatest interests—history and politics—also led to some of his most cherished memories. He fondly recalls the annual class trip to Washington, D.C., where students received an immersive experience in U.S. history and government. Beyond the educational value, it was an opportunity to strengthen bonds with classmates and forge friendships with students from across the country.From Montessori to MIT: Hernando's Story of Perseverance and PurposeAmong his favorite academic experiences was History with Mr. Howard, a class that deepened his passion for the social sciences. “It was definitely one of the most challenging classes,” Hernando reflects, “but Mr. Howard made it fun and engaging. He always connected with us as students.”Hernando also made the most of extracurricular opportunities, balancing academics with leadership and enrichment activities. He served as president of the National Junior Honor Society, vice president of the International Junior Thespian Honor Society, and participated in Chess Club and Karate.Upon graduation, Hernando went on to attend American Heritage School of Broward, his high school of choice, with a generous scholarship, thanks to the support of his teachers.MAB is committed to providing dedicated support to each of their students–something Hernando experienced first-hand. He shared that he fondly remembers Ms. Cristine staying after school with him and a group of peers multiple days a week to help them prepare for their entrance exams and provided support in subjects they struggled with. With this, his skill level in essay writing and grammar, two areas he struggled in, greatly improved, and he was able to gain his scholarship.The bonds he formed with his teachers made the students hard workers. “These teachers cared about our success and wanted the best for us,” Hernando shares, “and therefore pushed us to our best.”Hernando went on to Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he majors in Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making. Hernando shares that MAB prepared him for high school, university and beyond through his teachers’ help navigating problem solving. At MAB, he learned how to think through issues and come up with solutions, which later led to his university path.He credits the Montessori method for his ability to think creatively and find patterns in complex problems.Hernando leaves incoming students with this advice:“Take advantage of any opportunities and make connections with your fellow students and the teaching staff. I still remember my chats in aftercare with Ms. Val and talking to Ms. Linda while waiting for my parents in the front office. Everything I learned from them I have applied at some point in my life. More than that, just do the work and put in the effort in your classes. It’ll pay off.”
