Hi, I will most likely be an incoming lower next year at Phillips Exeter Academy! I was wondering what an average day is like for an Exeter student? Also, how easy is to assimilate into Exeter’s culture and workflow? Thank you!
Hey! I was a new lower coming into Exeter as well. Classes strt from 8 AM-6 PM. This includes sports, and lunch. Generally, you will have math, English, elective, Science, and since you are a new lower, health. Each class is 50 mins long, and there are two periods called fat blocks, which are essentially 75 mins of class. However, at my time at Exeter, teachers rarely use fat block. So, as you can see, although 8-6 sounds intimidating, you will see that you have a TON of free blocks.
I will not lie, it can be difficult assimilating into the crowd at first. However, I was quite introverted, but spending time at Exeter turned me into an extrovert. By winter term, you will feel as if you were a returning lower. I urge you to join clubs, and other activities to get to know more people.
Work wise, it depends on your old school. Generally, you can get all your homework done in the matter of 2-3 hours as a new lower. You can easily do these assignments throughout your free blocks. Writing will be difficult because those teachers expect you to be on par with the returning lowers. However, I highly recommend you telling the teacher on the first day of class, and letting them know.
@Rchen321 Thank you very much for your response! Through your explanation of Exeter, I am more excited than ever to attend next year! Also, what would you recommend wearing for the revisit day (I’m a guy)?
I mean, I wore a blazer, plain t-shirt underneath, black jeans, and Oxfords. However, it started pouring, so I had to switch the blazer for a rain jacket. Some people showed up with a hoodie and jeans. In all honesty, a polo shirt and khakis is probably fine.
School dress code is totally fine. I think SwimKid wore khakis and a button down.
@RChen006 Would you recommend wearing oxfords with the khakis or are some casual shoes such as NMD’s fine as well?
Sneakers are totally fine! I don’t think that my son has worn anything but sneakers to class. Usually accompanied by a hoodie. Dress code is actually pretty lax. Look presentable. And you’ll be walking a bit so wear comfy shoes.
@momof3swimmers Thank you very much for your help! 