Shadow season has begun, and Judge Memorial got their first glance at the class of 2028 on Oct. 26. Over 100 potential students for next year’s incoming freshman class arrived at 8 a.m. to partake in one of Judge’s annual group shadow days.

This was the first shadow day this year, with a second following on Nov. 8, and another planned for early 2024. Both past events had about 100 potential students in attendance. Most of the students came with their full classes, while others came independently.

Each event takes several months to plan and requires lots of time and effort. Shadow days are primarily organized by Mr. Nathan Shaw, director of admissions, as well as student ambassadors. Oct.’s group of potential students went to the art’s assembly, participated in presentations, and learned the dance to Thriller.

I sat down with Mr. Shaw here at Judge Memorial to ask him about past and future shadow days. When asked why shadow days are so important, he responded: “I believe that shadow days are so important because we’re bringing potential students onto our campus to experience our community. That’s one of the biggest things about Judge. Whenever I’m talking about why you should come here, it’s because you’re going to make friends for a lifetime. You’re going to feel our love, our acceptance, our inclusivity. There’s nothing like a shadow day to show that off.”