Serendipity Holloway

From Wales to Yorkshire, then across the world to Australia, and finally to Canada, Serendipity Holloway’s journey has been anything but ordinary. At 14, she moved to Canada and found herself restarting Grade 8 due to differences in the education systems between Australia and Canada. Instead of frustration, she found opportunity.

“Redoing Grade 8 at MacLachlan actually gave me more time to connect with people. It let me slow down and build friendships I still have today.”

Although she joined MacLachlan late in the school year, it did not take long for her to feel at home. With just two months of classes before summer, she made meaningful friendships that quickly blossomed outside of the classroom.

“Everyone was so welcoming. It was easy to make friends. There was a warmth at MacLachlan that I hadn’t experienced before.”

In Grade 11, Serendipity’s family moved back to Australia, and once again, due to differences between the Canadian and Australian education systems, she found herself restarting the grade. This time, however, she noticed something else. Just how much she missed her MacLachlan education. She appreciated the critical thinking skills, the personalized support, and the confidence she gained while there.

Her MacLachlan memories are full of energy and heart. DECA competitions, passionate debates, and unforgettable Duke of Edinburgh adventures, where freezing in a tent became a hilarious bonding moment with peers. She remembers Miss Corbett as someone who made a lasting impact, and teachers like Mr. Dominato and Mr. Seidenberg who made learning exciting.

Among her closest friends were Lojain and Sophie, who became like family. “Even though I have five sisters, Lojain and Sophie became my sisters too.” Years later, the three reunited in Australia, picking up right where they left off. “It felt like no time had passed.”

Serendipity is in her final semester at Queensland University, pursuing a double degree in Behavioural Science and Justice. She is now leaning toward a future in justice, driven by her passion for advocacy and systems change.

“I truly don’t think I would have made it through the school system the way I did without MacLachlan. It changed how I see myself and how I see the world.”

Her story is a beautiful reminder that when students are embraced and empowered, they thrive, and those connections last a lifetime. Thank you, Serendipity, for reminding us that MacLachlan friendships are forever.