The Panther Guides program is a leadership and service opportunity for student tour guides and ambassadors at PDS, led by Admission Associate Alesia Klein. Students become eligible to apply for the Junior and Senior Ambassador position at the end of their sophomore year.

Qualities that make a successful Panther Guide are students who are curious, open to meeting people, and willing to share their story. Along with that, students who are leaders or want leadership opportunities, and students who showcase traits such as being kind and friendly to everyone. Freshman Panther Guide Naiya Patel said, “My favorite part of being a panther guide is getting to share my experience at PDS with new parents. Since I’ve been here for 11 years, I have made some memorable memories throughout all grades, and getting to share that with parents who are looking to have the same experience brings me so much joy.” Ms. Klein admits that her favorite part of the Panther Guides program is the students, saying, “I love working with the upper-school students–, they are amazing., I’m so proud to be able to work with them.”

Panther Guides also gain leadership experiences from giving tours. Patel said, “I used to be a really nervous speaker around people I’d never met, but since I started giving tours, I have gained experience and found techniques and skills on how to share my story and help give the ultimate tour to new families.” Panther Guides’ number one job is to represent PDS, and bring a unique perspective to their tours. Mrs. Klein encourages guides to tell their stories because that’s what people remember. She says, “Hearing their stories is what sells the school.” The Panther Guides program represents PDS in an authentic, fresh perspective, and shows prospective families our community firsthand.