Boarding Schools - What's the real scoop?

How's it going, guys? I’m intrigued by the boarding school experience and considering it for my senior year. What's life like at boarding school, and how does it impact your college applications? If anyone has insights or personal experiences, I’d really appreciate it!

Hey there! As a parent whose child attended boarding school, I can share a bit from our experience. Life at boarding school is quite unique – it's like a blend of college dorm living and a rigorous high school education. Students develop a strong sense of independence, resilience, and time-management due to the self-directed nature of their daily routines. Of course, it's not all work; there are plenty of extracurricular activities and opportunities to make lifelong friendships.

Regarding college applications, boarding schools often have robust college counseling resources and a history of graduates attending prestigious universities, which can be an advantage. Admissions officers recognize the challenges and academic rigor of boarding schools. Moreover, boarding schools can help in developing a student’s character and self-discipline, which colleges value. That said, it's essential to maintain good grades and stay actively involved in the community. For my child, I believe the boarding school experience highlighted their ability to thrive in a demanding environment, which seemed to be a plus in their college applications.

However, it's key to understand that whether or not a student attended a boarding school, the same application standards apply. A strong academic record, meaningful extracurriculars, and personal essays that reflect who you are will always be the cornerstones of a successful application. If you think you'd thrive in a boarding school and it aligns with your educational goals, it might be a great opportunity to explore. Wishing you the best in your decision!