Denys Sharpylo’s Symbiotic Relationship with George School

“Running around campus at night, walking during the sunsets; when I was a student here, those moments were filled with friends and good memories.”

Denys Sharpylo ’22 left a lasting impression on George School. During his time as a student, you could find him everywhere, from singing on Red Square, scoring goals on the soccer field, or speaking to prospective students in the Admission Office. He was captain of both the soccer and basketball teams, a lead student ambassador, and was chosen as Epilogue (Епілог) speaker for the Class of 2022 Commencement.

In his memorable speech, Denys told the crowd, “I still remember the first time I stepped foot on this campus. That guy was definitely not the same person as this guy.”

While Denys became known in the community as an outspoken leader, a representative for his class, and friend to all, he was not always as outgoing. Denys grew up in Kyiv, Ukraine, a place where he did not have the opportunity to pick his own classes or try different sports or arts activities in an academic setting. When deciding to pursue education in the United States, he recalls the difficulties in adjusting to American culture during his first year.

“Especially in the beginning, I was a little bit shy of the environment. In the United States, you’re asked to be an individual and it’s encouraged to have your own voice,” Denys said. “As soon as I figured out that people are here to help, it was easier to adjust and be myself.”

For George School students, senior year comes with an expected busy load: AP and IB courses, college applications, and after-school sports and activities. Denys’ senior year was met with unexpected challenges. In February of 2022, the Russian-Ukrainian war changed the lives of his friends and family in his hometown.

“George School became my haven when the war started in Ukraine because I couldn’t go home.” He shared his gratitude to George School for providing him with all the resources he needed at the time to finish his senior year and prepare for college.

“I feel responsible to give back [to George School] because it really helped me when I was in need.”

Now in his sophomore year at Dickinson College in Carlisle PA, Denys is a double major in Quantitative Economics and Data Analytics with a minor in Computer Science. Outside of the classroom, he plays club soccer, and is a member of the Liberty Capacity (Dickinson Admissions Society) and Martial Arts club.

His interest in economics and computer science began with courses taken during his time at George School. Denys recalls Sara Shreve-Price (History) and Travis Otergero (STEM) as his most memorable teachers. He appreciated their unique approaches to teaching the material, which sparked his interest in the subjects.

“I never thought I would ever [consider studying] computer science before.” Denys shares. “It started here at George School.”

Denys explained that taking AP (Advanced Placement) courses at George School like Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Computer Science not only prepared him for college by giving him background knowledge on the field, but also helped him get ahead on introductory courses. Thanks to his credits from George School, he was scheduled to take a senior seminar course this year as a sophomore. “I give kudos again to my classes here for preparing me.”

Denys also shared that the transition to college from George School was natural. “Being in a dorm at George School prepares you for exactly what to expect in college.”

As a young alumnus, he remains closely connected to George School. In the past year, he has attended soccer and basketball games to cheer on former teammates, and spent last summer as an adventure counselor for George School Day Camp. He even gave advice to a few senior students who were preparing Commencement speeches of their own. Denys describes his relationship with George School as “symbiotic” and gives back in any way he can.

Denys also returned to campus to speak at an Admission event.“It was actually a really cool full circle moment being on the other side of things, telling my story, and hopefully inspiring other people to apply,” he said.

Denys shared advice to incoming students from across the world. “Don’t hold back. Really on anything. Just go out and let yourself roam in this environment. Try a new sport or hobby, volunteer, join a new club, or start your own. That is exactly what makes the George School experience fulfilling.”

What is next for Denys? He aspires to go to business school after college and looks forward to studying abroad.

“I appreciate George School having faith in me. I hope I repaid it in some way and will keep trying to give back through my life.”