Westtown School - Review #41

One of the wonderful things about Westtown is its community. As a student at Westtown for four years, I can truly say that it has become my second home. All of the students and the faculty are one large family. From community dinner to weekends outside, Westtown is truly focused on the growth of all of its students as both individuals and as a whole. One of the remarkable things about Westtown is that the majority of its students remain on campus during the weekends; even the students who live in locally stay on campus because of how much fun it is to be there. Weekend activities such as making cookies or going to a teachers apartment to watch a pro football games help the students get to know each other better and aid in the growth of the community.

Westtown changed me. When I entered as a freshman, I was confused about myself and the decisions I would need to make about college and my future. I left with a feeling of independence, with a love of life, and with irreplaceable friendships and experiences.

I would do nothing different. I would tell incoming students to be prepared for the most exciting and best experiences that I have ever had. Westtown is my most favorite place in the entire world.

I love everything about Westtown but most of all, its community. Everyone looked out for each other and supported each other in a way which I have not seen demonstrated anywhere else.

Study with peers, get involved in extracurricular activities and remember that you will never be in the same place twice. Take every moment and enjoy it. Stay on campus for the weekends and meet everyone and learn about their diverse experiences.

Academics at Westtown are truly unusual. The classrooms are set up in a circle to emphasize group discussion. One of the important principles of Westtown academics is that the students are learning from each other and not just from the professor. There is additionally a large opportunity for students to take the classes which interest them most in all subjects including math and science. By allowing students this freedom, it helps to encourage students to become interested and excited in their work.

The best facet of the athletic program is that is is 100% inclusive. Every student is required to take part in the program therefore it is a great opportunity to meet students of different ages and see peers in a different setting. While the sports are competitive, the school is absolutely focused upon academics. For the students who are less competitive, there are also opportunities to become involved in a more intramural environment where skill work is the primary goal. The coaching staff is deep and strong and the brand new facilities make a wonderful environment. State of the art weight facilities and gyms make it possible for athletes to reach their highest potential.

The arts program at Westtown is extremely strong and includes faculty which are very knowledgeable in their respective fields. The arts program is very diverse, offering sculpture, studio arts, painting, drawing, screen printing, print making, and much more. Their are 5 school productions every year and many different ways to be a involved in them whether it be through the cast, the a.v. club, scenic art design, directing, the pit, or stage crew. In addition, there are many musical art showcases for the orchestra, jazz band, select orchestra, and wind ensemble. Art is a requirement for all students at Westtown but there are so many ways to become involved that everyone can find something which they are interested in.

A recent study showed that Westtown has the highest amount of extra-curricular opportunities out of any private school in the Philadelphia region. In addition, if there isn't an extra-curricular activity that someone wants to participate in, they are encouraged to start their own organization with the help of their peers.

Dorm life is fantastic. The faculty are like second parents and the atmosphere is light and family oriented. The selection process is a lottery system and returning students are allowed to choose their roommates. All rooms are for two people and their are kitchens on every floor.

There is one dining hall on campus located in the main building. There are myriads of dining options for vegans and vegetarians and the staff is extremely accommodating. Breakfast is a buffet style while lunch and dinner are family style with eight people at each table. There is also a program called work program where all students at one time will help with serving a meal, washing dishes, etc.

The campus is in a wonderful location-close to Philadelphia and West Chester-and therefore offers wonderful opportunities to be involved in activities and to go out with other students and faculty on the weekends, etc.

Westtown is ultimately a family. When I attended, I knew every student and every faculty. Never have I been in a place as inclusive and welcoming as Westtown.