Culver Academies - Review #14

I went to Culver and my local high school for two years each, and the thing that was the biggest shock to me was the leadership. Both the boys and girls system teach the students how to lead, and how to take initiative. I also didn't realize till I came to college how great of a support system you create when you're at Culver. Not only do you have your friends, but you have your dorm Mom, counselor, teachers, coaches, and mentors. All these people care about you, your thoughts, and how you're doing.

Going to Culver was the best decision of my life. I grew so much as a person. I learned things about myself that I never thought possible. I not only learned a lot academically but also about people and how to deal with them. Like college, you meet so many different types of people from lots of different backgrounds. It was rewarding to experience that earlier than most because it prepared me for life that much earlier.

When I first arrived I would have tried to make more friends, and be open to more people. I was extremely homesick and really didn't think I needed to make more friends. But in the end, the friends I made at Culver know me better than anyone else. I also would have liked to get to know my teachers a little better.

The one thing that sticks with me the most is the relationships I made. They were the thing that kept me sane while I was there. My friends helped me grow up, which was definitely something I needed to do at that point in my life.

Have fun. Meet as many new people as possible, pretty much enjoy yourself. Definitely don't get obsessed with your computer, which is harder than it sounds. Go to as many sporting events as possible. Again, just have fun...you'll miss it when it's over

Culver is challenging academically, no doubt about it. And coming to college I am yet to be challenged like I was at Culver in some of my classes. The teachers really make class what it is. They are all so qualified and extremely helpful. The best part is they all care, and they want to you succeed. (Where in my public school it seemed like some teachers could care less either way). All the teachers I had were engaging and made learning fun. The competitive environment is rough at times, and I can remember nights that I stayed up all night working on a project or homework. But overall, it really paid off because when I got to school I wasn't blown away by the workload.

Culver strives to be the best at everything, and for the most part they succeed. Football, hockey, lacrosse, polo, fencing; any sport you could imagine they have and generally, all the teams are awesome. The facilities are second to none. Since most of the games/meets are at least a half hour away, all the teams are really close and become like family. The best part was going and supporting your friends. All the games have students at them, and everyone is cheering. It's great to be competing and look up in the stands and all your friends are there. The whole atmosphere is just indescribable. Everyone is proud to go to Culver, and it shows.

Although I wasn't involved in the Performing Arts, all the performances and shows that were done were awesome. Culver also has what they call Concert Series. They bring in acts to perform for the school and community. The Russian Ballet, Davey Jones, and lots of other performers have come. I always really enjoyed these concerts because it was a nice change of pace as teachers aren't supposed to give you homework that night.

There are so many options when it comes to clubs/extracurriculars. Most everyone is involved in a sport and an extracurricular. The volunteer opportunities are also endless. There is a group that plans trips to food pantries, homeless shelters and raises money for various organizations. One group that is particularly unique is the Leadership Committee for Africa (LCA). It started just a couple of years ago but has boomed on campus. LCA works on educating the campus about AIDS, poverty and war in Africa. They have raised a ton of money for Cristel House, an organization that helps teenage HIV+ mothers in South Africa. The work they have done has really made a difference and some girls even got the chance to go to South Africa and see what they're money was doing.

Each girls dorm has about 40 girls in it. Boys, I'm not really sure. But either way your dorm was where your friends were. You never really know someone until you live with them. As a transfer and first year you get randomly assigned a roommate. But if it really doesn't work out you can switch. You fill out a questionnaire, and that's how they match you. I really loved living in the dorms though. Whether or not your roommate becomes your best friend, you can always find the people you get along with there.

Dining Hall wasn't all that bad. You get used to it. They have 3 meals a day. There are certain times when they serve hot food. I don't think your necessarily supposed to go in when they're not serving but you can. They have cereal and bagels that people would get during free periods and such. There is also the "Shack" that serves burgers, pizza, calzones, ice cream and pop. It's mostly open for dinner, but you have to pay for it with either cash or a personal drawing account you can set up.

The town is small but cute. There is a movie theater, a CVS, a couple gas stations and a handful of restaurants. A lot of people go into town on Saturday to have brunch or go see the movie that is playing.

Friday and Saturday nights after which ever sporting event/ activity there was that night, you will just find a bunch of people just hanging out and talking. The social life is what you would expect out of high schoolers.