This year is the Class of 2020's first Reunion, so we're catching up with what they've been up to leading up to the event in May. Next up are twin sisters Arianne ETTEHADIEH'20 and Sara ETTEHADIEH'20.

What's something from the past five years that you're excited to share with your classmates?

Arianne: Since graduating from Branksome, one of my most unexpected—and equally exciting—accomplishments was being hired as a caddie at the Old Course in St Andrews, Scotland, for the summer 2023 season. I was one of only three women among 200 caddies to loop the Old that summer. Branksome instilled in me the confidence to step into unfamiliar and intimidating environments, which allowed me to thrive alongside veteran Scottish caddies and players from around the world.

Sara: Since graduating, I’ve had many exciting and fulfilling experiences. Academically, I discovered a passion for women’s health and contributed to published research projects, including one on the intersection of cannabis use and pregnancy-related health outcomes. It is so rewarding to be able to contribute to addressing such a critical knowledge gap in the Canadian health landscape. Beyond my coursework, I was very proud to be a member of McMaster’s varsity ultimate Frisbee team, where I helped contribute to winning two national titles among 23 other women's university teams. Now I enjoy sharing my skills by returning to Branksome to volunteer as a coach.

Tell us a bit about the path that led you to where you are today.

Arianne: After graduating from Branksome in 2020, I started studying Life Sciences at Queen’s University, but changed my major to History knowing it was my passion and strength (shoutout Ms. Dalglish!). While at Queen's, I played for the Women's Flag Football team, joined some clubs, and completed my thesis on the W8banaki First Nation. In my third year I attended the University of St Andrews through the Robert Tyre Jones Jr. Scholarship program. I am now finishing up my Masters at Queen's before attending law school in the fall.

Sara: After graduating from Branksome in 2020, I attended McMaster University, where I studied Health Sciences. Throughout university, I had the opportunity to pursue research, participate in varsity athletics and take on leadership positions. However, there were many times where I was not able to achieve my goals as well—I feel that Branksome gave me the opportunity early to learn resilience, to try things out of my comfort zone and not fear failure. Since graduating university in May, I have begun working as an In-Hospital Program Specialist for Campfire Circle at SickKids hospital, where I design and deliver programming for children with cancer and other serious illnesses.

What's something that you're excited about for coming to your first Reunion?

Arianne: Seeing the faces of my old friends and teachers. I cannot wait to hear what my classmates have been up to these days. I am also excited to walk the halls again, visit the AWC, and hopefully eat a Thunder Crunch!

Sara: I am really excited to connect with old friends, hang out in the AWC, see some new pictures of the iCAST and hopefully get to eat a Thunder Crunch!