Read more details about Kimball Union Academy on their 2024-25 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
I feel like the sense of community is like no other at KUA. I graduated nearly 4 years ago, yet I am still in daily contact with at least 15-20 students from my school. It is such a close knit community like no other. KUA also is a fun experience. I never thought I would say this, but I was always excited when I went to school. KUA makes learning fun, sports fun, and student life fun. Every aspect is exciting, and you are learning new things and meeting new people every day!
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
The best thing that happened to me was going to KUA in the first place! To this day, I maintain that going to KUA was the best decision I have ever made in my life, and I know that will stay true for decades to come. The friends and memories I made at KUA will last a lifetime, and for that, I am forever grateful!
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I wish I would've gone for four years! I only went Sophomore-Senior year, and I regret not going for the full four years. I feel like I missed a full year of socializing that would have really made KUA an even better place!
4.) What did you like most about your school?
I liked the school pride. When you go to KUA, you live and breathe KUA!!! To this day, I still wear KUA clothes, and see much alum doing the same! The school pride is like no other, and once a wildcat, always a wildcat!
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things! I was nervous at first, yet trying new things led me to meet so many new and exciting people, and you have so much more appreciation for the school once you experience everything!!!
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
I most enjoyed the teachers. Not only were they very intelligent and knowledgeable in their field, but they were personal mentors to students. Many teachers lived on-campus, so students were around them for more than just the class time. This allowed us to get to know them on a more personal level, making the learning experience much more enjoyable. Because of this, I felt like I learned more and had a greater appreciation for the work the faculty and staff were doing.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
I really liked the team feeling at KUA. I played JV soccer for 3 years, and I always loved practice and games. We were more than just a team. We all got along really well and treated athletics more than a bonding experience. We could get to know our teammates on a more personal level, making the sports much more exciting.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
I was part of the Legally Blonde musical my senior year, as this was something I wanted to do before I graduated. I was hesitant at first, but it was one of my favorite experiences at KUA. The people in the theater dept. were very helpful and just wanted to see the students grow as people and actors. Looking back, I wish I would've acted in more plays, as the behind the scenes was very exciting.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
I didn't take part in many extra-curricular activities except for STEM. I only stemmed for 1 year, but it was very exciting to meet new students who had such a deep passion for technology. I could learn a lot from these individuals and still use some of that knowledge to this day!
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
I only lived in the dorm my first year, but I'm glad I did. It was a great way to meet new people and have an exciting life outside of classes and sports. Late night visits with other students was very fun and I very much miss the shenanigans we had together!
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
I liked the wide variety of options each day! The stir-fry station was AMAZING! Staff was always super friendly, and it was always a great time to relax and talk with friends about their day.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Meriden, it located the small village KUA in was a lot of fun! We made weekly runs down to the Deli where we would get sandwiches are to die for! The local public is super friendly and loves to meet the new students each year from all over the world!
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
Social life was amazing at KUA. I made more friends in my three years at KUA than I made in my entire 21 years of life! Everyone is so friendly and willing to meet new people. The hanging out after dinner was always my favorite time of day, and I miss it to this day!
Read more details about Kimball Union Academy on their 2024-25 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
At KUA students are encouraged to explore themselves through other means of learning for example exploring a specific scholar program or receiving a Cullman Scholarship. During my time at KUA, I dived into both ends. . .
I feel like the sense of community is like no other at KUA. I graduated nearly 4 years ago, yet I am still in daily contact with at least 15-20 students from my school. It. . .
What is really unique about KUA is that the school keeps the student size relatively small; thus, you can always feel like you're at home. Everyone knows each other and every faculty knows every student's. . .
Show more reviews (3 reviews)
Recent Articles
Boarding School Myths
This article debunks common myths about boarding schools, addressing misconceptions about wealth requirements, diversity, student life, school types, and family communication. It provides valuable insights for families considering boarding school education and highlights the modern realities of these institutions.
A Partnership of Three
This article explores the three-way partnership between the school, parents, and students in boarding school education. It outlines the obligations and responsibilities of each party, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and commitment to ensure a successful boarding school experience.
Admissions Checklist For Boarding School Applicants
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed checklist for boarding school applicants, covering key aspects of the admissions process such as testing, recommendations, interviews, and financial aid. It also includes additional information for international students applying to U.S. boarding schools.
