A tragic backstory isn’t a prerequisite for the Harding-Pencroft Academy. But it certainly doesn’t hurt. Not that Nelinha da Silva lets her difficult past inform her future. Now that this expert mechanical engineer is finally graduating from her freshman year, there’s nothing but smooth sailing and clear skies ahead.
What? Do you want to be the one to tell her?
Stepping Out of the Pod
As part of House Cephalopd, Nelinha’s studies revolve around engineering, applied mechanics, innovation, and defensive systems. And unlike some schools, there’s a ton of fraternizing between the different houses at Harding-Pencroft. Nelinha’s roommates and best friends Ana and Ester are actually representatives of House Dolphin and House Orca. Turns out that shared trauma and social ostracization are way better means to making lasting friendships.
And let’s be real, babe. Ana and Ester would totally fall apart without Nelinha around to make sure they don’t walk around campus with their flippers on backward.
Style Points
Although she spends much of her day working in dirty, oily engine rooms, Nelinha’s makeup is always on point. No matter how filthy her clothes get. We’re not quite sure how she is able to remain so put together, but the Rosie the Riveter look will never go out of fashion. If you don’t know who that is, ask your grandparents. Or better yet, ask their grandparents.
Starting From the Bottom
Nelinha grew up in Rio as an orphan. No family. No home. No money.
No excuses. Thanks to an elementary school teacher who saw a lot of promise, Nelinha was eventually able to enroll at Harding-Pencroft. And in just two short years, she has proven to be one of HP’s top engineering students. This is why her friends don’t mind her famous #NelinhaLectures. You can’t really blame her for being a know-it-all when she does in fact, know it all.
The S-Word
Whatever you do, do not call Nelinha a scholarship kid. That is, unless you want to be shunned by her and her friends for the rest of the year. (Looking at you, Gemini Twain).
Sure, Nelinha didn’t come from wealth like her roommate Ester, but at Harding-Pencroft students are judged by their merit, not their background. Because if things start to go south, it’s not going to be your money and influence that will keep you alive on treacherous waters. It’s going to be equal parts talent, nerve, and cooperation.
A sense of style doesn’t hurt either, babe.
Want to learn more about Nelinha and the other students of Harding-Pencroft Academy? Be sure to pick up Daughter of the Deep, on sale now!
