Savannah Roberts (Savi) was born and raised on the islands of The Bahamas. Before coming to IMS as a new 8th grade boarding student in fall 2014, she attended Lyford Cay International School, an IB institution in Nassau. Savi didn’t have to travel far for her next boarding school. When she chose to attend Hotchkiss, it was comforting to her to know that she would have a backbone/family to return to if she ever needed anything. Currently a junior at Hotchkiss, Savi plays varsity tennis, JV soccer, and does dynamic training in the off-season. She is also a current member of BAHSA (Black and Hispanic Student Association), S.E.A. (environmentalism), and BC2M (Bring Change to Mind).

What is the best advice you ever received?
Everyone’s probably heard this before, but so far it seems to be true. Do what makes you happy. It’s so easy to get caught up in things that don’t matter or with people who don’t have your best interest at heart. The best lessons happen when you follow your heart because you find out what you want and don’t. Sometimes, it’s nice to just listen to your own voice. It isn’t meant to be silent, even when others are speaking.

If you could have an unlimited stockpile of one thing what would you choose?
French fries are my weakness!

What is the most memorable book that you read while a student at IMS?
Purple Hibiscus, by Chimamanda Adichie. I enjoyed learning about the African culture and breaking down the family dynamics which, from what I can remember, were intense.

What is the best meal that you’ve ever had on vacation?
I can’t think of one specific thing I’ve eaten, but you can never go wrong with sushi- spicy tuna crispy rice from Katsuya. It is the best right at home in the Bahamas. A close second would be the empanadas I learned to make in Panama!

What is your favorite song in your music library right now?
I have two favorite songs right now. “You Are the Reason,” by Calum Scott, and “Sleep Talking,” by Charlotte Lawrence.