Read more details about The Williston Northampton School on their 2024-25 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
One aspect about Williston Northampton that is truly unique to Williston and only Williston is the strength of the Williston community. I found that the whole structure of the school was very supporting and extremely useful while I was navigating through my four years. The individual teachers were very passionate and because their job duties involved being a part of our extracurricular lives, they really understood our individual needs.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
I think it prepared me for my challenges in college. I felt like I was definitely at a huge advantage at Emory University and it gave me confidence to pursue anything I wanted there. Without the education I got at Williston, I doubt I would be in medical school today.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I would have tried to get my hands into more activities than I did because there were so many more things I could have done.
4.) What would you never want to change about your school?
I hope my teachers stay there forever. They were incredible people and have a tremendous gift. It's exciting to go back and see them.
5.) What things could be improved about your school?
I would love to see the endowment grow larger and larger so students would always have access to the latest and greatest technology. Keeping our faculty so strong would also be much easier.
6.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Just take advantage of all the opportunities. Williston has the ability to make anyone an Ivy League college grad as long as the student shows some initiative.
Academics:
1.) What did you like best about your school’s academics?
I liked the flexibility our dean of academics gave us in planning our schedules. While there are requirements, I was able to waive a few of them in order to take additional advanced placement classes which enabled me to start college with a semester already under my belt. I also liked the wide variety of course offerings.
2.) What did you like least about the academics in your school?
I thought some of the classroom facilities themselves were somewhat run down and could be set-up with better technology.
Athletics:
1.) What did you like best about your school’s athletics?
Because the school is somewhat small, I think I was able to get on many competitive teams that at a larger school I might not have been able to. This improved my self-confidence as well as my skill levels at the sports. Also, the facilities were phenomenal and we were very competitive against rival schools.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) What did you like best about your school’s art program?
My sophomore year, the school built a new campus center which housed our art program. The resources I had for my photography classes were wonderful. Also, the teachers themselves were very experienced in their fields and did not restrict learning at all.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) What did you like most about the extracurricular activities offered at your school?
I liked the range of the existing organizations and the ease at which a new one could be created. People were extremely passionate about the ones they were in as well as the faculty member that presided over the organization. Also, they were incredibly well-funded.
2.) What did you like least about the extracurricular activities offered at your school?
I wish more students took advantage of these opportunities.
Dorm Life:
1.) What was the best thing about dorm life in your school?
I liked how all the dorms were centrally located, making it easier to see my friends. Also, the dorms had most modern conveniences and the ones I lived in were better than my college dorms.
Dining:
1.) What was the best thing about your dining arrangements?
Once again, because of the size of the campus, the dining hall was extremely convenient. Also, the staff there was committed to doing everything to make it better and more enjoyable. We had theme meals such as 70s and movies day which just brightened everyone. They were really warm.
2.) What did you like least about your dining arrangements?
Like my gripe with any cafeteria, the food gets tiring after awhile.
Social and Town Life:
1.) How welcome did you feel by the other students when you first arrived at the school
I felt that it was easy to fit in because everyone was in the same boat.
2.) Describe the level of diversity and integration of students in your school:
There is an incredible amount of diversity at the school. We have so many students from overseas and different socioeconomic backgrounds.
3.) Describe typical fun activities you did on a weekend:
I went to the dances and the basketball games. The faculty also planned activities like paintball, movies, and things like that.
4.) What was the town like?
The town life surrounding the school is excellent. Being part of the 5 college area provided much to do.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
8:00 AM
Class until 2 pm
2:00 PM
Activites until 3:30 pm
3:30 PM
Sports until 5:30
6:30 PM
Dinner
8:00 PM
Study hall
10:00 PM
Bed
Weekend
11:00 AM
Wake up and eat
12:00 AM
Study in the afternoon
4:00 PM
Mall
7:00 PM
Dinner
10:00 PM
Movies at the dorm
Read more details about The Williston Northampton School on their 2024-25 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Williston has a great balance of day students and boarding students, which allow students to know and learn more about the area. With a widespread campus in a safe neighborhood and numerous stores and restaurants. . .
Williston was the best community I could've ever established an identity with. My parents teach at the school, so we actually had a house on the campus. I developed close relationships with not only. . .
At a first glance, The Williston Northampton School appears similar to most college preparatory schools. It contains a beautiful New England campus, wonderful and caring teachers, and great athletic and artistic facilities. However, as many. . .
Show more reviews (14 reviews)
Recent Articles
5 Reasons to Choose a Boys' School
Uncover the benefits of boys' schools, including tailored teaching methods, reduced social pressures, and opportunities for personal growth. Learn how these institutions foster an environment where boys can excel academically, explore diverse interests, and develop into well-rounded young men without gender stereotypes.
Military Schools Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
This in-depth article explores the world of military schools, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting their unique benefits. It provides parents with valuable insights into why they might consider a military school, debunks prevalent myths, and offers a realistic view of life in these institutions. Whether you're just beginning to explore educational options or are seriously considering a military school for your child, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Teaching in a Boarding School: A Comprehensive Guide for Educators
This in-depth article explores the unique aspects of teaching in a boarding school environment. It provides valuable insights for educators considering this career path, covering the multifaceted nature of the job, qualifications required, and practical tips for securing a position. Whether you're a seasoned teacher looking for a change or a new graduate exploring career options, this guide offers a realistic view of life as a boarding school educator.
