“Bed sheet, check… notebooks, check… desk lamp, check.”
As fall approaches, students and their families pack for an exciting four months at semester schools across the country. From the northern mountains of Vermont and Maine to the sunny beaches of California and the Bahamas, Fieldston students prepare for unique experiences that offer a fresh contrast to New York City life. Nervous excitement is a shared emotion among many students as they take a big step into unknown territory.
From the Mountain School in Vermont to Chewonki in Maine, the many alumni I talked to rave about their semester school and seem to jump at any chance to speak about it. This is a clear testament to the special and fulfilling experiences that these places offer. But how do upcoming students feel?
With a “mini Mount Everest” of clothing and supplies in the trunk, my family and I will soon drive six hours to the Mountain School. Although a bit nervous, I am eager to immerse myself in the unique program that combines farming, the environment and hands-on academics.
Fieldston student Declan Rexer (V) is attending SEGL (The School for Ethics and Global Leadership) in Washington, D.C. “SEGL gives me a chance to explore the world outside the New York City and Fieldston bubbles, a world that is very different than what I have been used to living and learning in,” Rexer explained.
Across the country, Ming Chen (V) is settling in at the Oxbow School, a visual arts semester program in Napa, California. “I don’t really know what to expect,” Chen said. “I’m looking forward to being a part of a community full of people that share a common interest in art. And because of this I think myself and my art will grow immensely.”
Paige Bohart (V), who will go to Chewonki for the spring semester, noted that she is excited for the immersive learning program that Chewonki offers and to be within a small, tightly knit community. “Although it is nerve racking to be away from home for so long, I cannot wait to see what I learn from this experience,” she said.
While semester school students do learn helpful new skills, many say that the most rewarding aspect is making friends with classmates from all around the country and even the world. “I spent 24 hours a day with 45 people, so it was impossible not to get to know everyone in an authentic and honest way,” said Anna McNulty (VI), a Mountain School alumna.
“If possible, everyone should consider applying to a semester-away program,” says McNulty. “It allows you to have a completely different and enriching learning experience for a semester of high school –– an opportunity not many have, and one you are lucky enough to know about.”
