Read more details about Cranbrook Schools on their 2024-25 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
The campus is peaceful and beautiful. It's unlike any campus anywhere. I enjoyed exploring many hidden trails with friends and alone. There are two campuses for upper school students: Kingswood and Cranbrook. Ladies reside in Kingswood and boys in Cranbrook. Both genders take classes at either campus.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
The experience taught me the importance of independence. It taught me to take charge of my learning, that there's support if I'm willing to ask for it, and open my eyes and there are so much more to see in the world.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I'd reach out more. Branch out and take risks to say hi and engage in some deep conversation with any many people as I can. I instead got complacent with my friend group and was too scared to venture out.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
Campus. It's so pretty and quiet. I miss the people, but perhaps the place itself even more. I've visited many other campuses and none can compare to Cranbrook's.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Go to Kingswood lake and hammock besides the lake and read a book! Take a friend or go alone!
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
One aspect that makes Cranbrook academic the way it's is the teachers. They are dedicated and passionate. They are here for the students, whenever. Now it's wholly up to the students themselves to take charge of their own education--if they are willing to ask for help.Workload is heavy, near-university level. There's moderate competition, but it's not conspicuous. Overall the school prepares you well for college and beyond.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
There's strong emphasis on athletics programs. The administration understands that playing sports is not only good for your health, but it teaches some valuable lessons that can't be learned in class--like teamwork and persistence and understanding one's own limitations. Soccer, ice hockey, and football are popular.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
I took weaving for a few years. The teachers allowed me freedom to manage my own time and research and outline and go-through my project. It taught me independence.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
The teachers are just as eager as the students during the extracurricular activities. They guide the students at times, but still allow maximum amount of freedom for the students to lead and learn.The school offers myriad activities, from snowboarding to newspaper and philosophy club.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Boys get singles, girls usually doubles. There's kitchen in each dorm for late night cooking. Dorm selection process is random with one exception; RAs get bigger and better rooms.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
Buffet style dining--always. There are always salad, rice and soup, In addition there are about five other hot entree options. Options rotate daily. Food's generally healthy, far healthier than typical high school food options.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Birmingham is a small city/big town. Many restaurants, including Thai, Japanese, American, and Middle-Eastern. The city's lively at nights. The school offers bus rides to Birmingham weekly, for free.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
Students here are generally very wealthy. But there's also some 30 percent on financial aid. So there's some diversity. Everyone's generally nice and accepting. I liked being with my dorm friends--I developed some deep relationship with them, which still lasts.
Read more details about Cranbrook Schools on their 2024-25 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Extremely diverse educational community that encourages students to get involved.
The school has a very well-rounded educational team that makes you feel home whilst providing with an excellent academic schedule.
All the teachers and staff. . .
Definitely its renowned Harkness discussion. The principal is based off the idea that the students are of such a high intellect that they are able to teach each other, and thus the teacher of the. . .
For me, living and working on a boarding school campus that was surrounded in nature made Cranbrook a very special place. Everyday was like finding a new adventure to embark on - from the small. . .
Show more reviews (7 reviews)
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