Hey, just a quick question. I am going to a boarding school in the fall and I was just wondering how I could make the most out of the school? (Sports, friends, academics, activities?) A lot of people are telling me that I have access to an amazing network of people, but how exactly can I do that?
Thanks, any feedback would be great!
It takes a little bravery, but commit to being a member of the community. Be open to new experiences, and put yourself out there. The happiest people I knew in school (and college, and life in general) were those who were most connected to a range of people across different groups/experiences. Conversely, the least happy people I knew were those who didn’t participate in extracurricular activities (sports, arts, community service, etc) and spent most of their time in their room.
In terms of being successful academically, connect with your teachers and classmates. Make a point of talking with your teachers on a regular basis, and don’t be afraid to speak up if you don’t understand, or to ask for help.
Try new things, attend everything you have time for in terms of speakers, recitals, etc. Be open and friendly to everyone - all students, faculty, all staff, etc. Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers for any extra help. Don’t pigeonhole yourself into one friend group. Participate actively in class which means being prepared daily. Take care of your health by eating well and getting enough sleep so you can be on top of your game. Don’t be afraid to slip up occasionally. We learn from mistakes but don’t make the wrong choices that might lead to disciplinary action.
All good advice above. There is so much more to BS than just the academics or being a star at one particular sport or other EC. Try new things – play a sport you’ve never played; take an art or music class in something you’ve never done. Be open to meeting people from all over the country and the world. You don’t have to (and can’t) do everything, but if something looks interesting, give it a try. Get to know your teachers and express your interests. You can really bond with your teachers, dorm parents and advisor. And if you have a problem, speak up – you will have tons of resources, and the adults are there to be your mentors and help you work things out.
Great advice on trying new things and connecting with different people. A lot of kids only realize later in their BS career that they squandered their first year or so by not moving out of their comfort zone.
Avoid gossiping!
Also, carve out a wee bit of time every day/week to reflect on what you’re enjoying, what you’re not, why, and what matters to you and think about any realigning you may want to do. It’s easy to get swept along in the flow of an exciting and busy life, so being both grateful and intentional can keep you grounded and sane.
Based on my experiences, private schools really open a window of opportunity. My private school offered a variety of clubs and activities not available in my regional high school.
I agree with most posted. I would add, be humble and kind. Work very hard but only for yourself. Never compete against someone else unless it is a team sport. Consider other opinions, be willing to have your mind changed forever on a subject. Learn to love learning. Dig deeply in subjects and ask your teachers to take you deeper into various subjects. Take some time to donate your time and talent in some way to community or world at large ( most importantly here be humble in this endeavor) Rather than being a mouthpiece, be a person who makes things better. Never use a megaphone but always lend an ear. Learn to write well. Be grateful for the experience. Yes, you will make connections with these students for life but you can build lots of human connections which are more important than future job offers. Lastly, when you go home to visit do not brag about how much better boarding school is vs. LPS/Magnet school. The opportunities you have are very limited in number. No one wants to feel bad about their path.
Be kind and Good luck.