Read more details about Hargrave Military Academy on their 2025 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
The military aspect of Hargrave and the institution of the military model for the organization and function of the student body does well to develop in the students qualities such as leadership, integrity, self-discipline, and work-ethic.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
The best thing that happened to me would be my achievement of an NROTC Scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. I was able to do this through the doors opened to me by Hargrave. Also, I am extremely excited and confident to begin college, as I believe Hargrave has prepared me very well.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
My advice is that you pick your friends very carefully. You will become what you associate with. Keep your goals in mind and do not be swayed by peer pressure.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
I positively loved the military aspect of the school. I love the order, discipline, regimentation, and schedule. My ambitions are toward the military, and I believe it has given me a good start toward that end.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Work within the system. Fighting it will only make things difficult, and ultimately the school will win. When, you come, go check out the Quartermaster and tell him Harrison sent you. Lastly, Alpha Barracks(Barracks 700) is where its at.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
I liked most the fact that all of my teachers were very accomplished and knowledgeable in their fields. The classes were very interesting and engaging (the majority of the time). Also, the teachers were always readily available if ever I needed extra help on a topic.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
As a USA Swimmer, I do not have a great deal of experience with the other sports groups. However, I liked most the fact that the coaches (particularly in swimming) are very accomplished. The swim coach has many years Olympic experience. Also, the facilities are superb.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
As a Military School, Hargrave has a marching and bagpipes band. However, I did not participate.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
Hargrave always had a wide variety of activities in which to participate on the weekends. These ranged from weekly movie trips to high level sports games (NBA, etc). Also, there are numerous clubs centering around a very wide variety of topics. Also, there was weekend paintball and a Tae Kwon Do program on Saturdays.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
As a military school, we lived on a barracks. Rooms are assigned and wake and sleep time is regimented. Food can be kept in rooms, but otherwise is not accessible during late hours. However, barracks life was quite enjoyable as it allows one to become very close to his fellow barracks mates.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The mess hall is regimented and the cadets eat with their respective companies when called. Hours are 0615 to 0715, 1230-1330, and 1800-1915. The food is good and of a decent variety and the food service members are friendly and helpful.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Hargrave is situated just outside the small town of Chatham. During weekends cadets are allowed to walk into town where there are a few restaurants and coffee shops. Personally, I liked the fact that the area is rural and peaceful.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
We were a band of brothers and it was a lot of fun. There is a girls school across town, so on weekends company could be had in town. Because we lived on barracks, we became close friends with each other and always found amusing ways to have fun and entertain ourselves.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
6:00 AM
Reveille
6:30 AM
Mess I
8:00 AM
Classes
12:30 AM
Mess II
1:45 PM
Academic Lab
2:30 PM
Individual Instruction Time
3:30 PM
Athletic Time
6:00 PM
Mess III
7:30 PM
Mandatory Study Hall
10:00 PM
Taps (lights out)
Weekend
7:30 AM
Reveille
8:00 AM
Mess I
9:00 AM
Military Time
12:30 AM
Mess II
1:00 PM
Free Time
5:00 PM
Recall
5:30 PM
Mess III
9:30 PM
Recall
10:00 PM
Taps (Lights out)
Read more details about Hargrave Military Academy on their 2025 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Hargrave is first and foremost, a military school. Cadets are taught military routines, discipline, and accountability. It is the cornerstone of the educational environment. Uniforms, room inspections, formations, and parades teach accountability. . .
The school is unwavering when it comes to meeting their mission statement of Building Young Men into Leaders of Character Prepared for Lifelong Success. The faculty and staff are deeply invested and it is clear. . .
This school is huge in developing personal growth. The faculty and staff are all involved and together, make a positive impact on each you man. Through perseverance, focus, encouragement, guidance, leadership, humility and patience. . .
Show more reviews (3 reviews)
Recent Articles
Why a Progressive School?
Sending your son or daughter to a progressive school sounds like a real leap of faith. It is until you look more closely at the kind of education your child will receive. Then you will understand the idealism in action which progressive schools embody.
Academics: International Baccalaureate & Advanced Placement
We compare and contrast the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and Advanced Placement. We also explore their distinct educational philosophies, curriculum structures, assessment methods, and global recognition to help students and parents make informed decisions about which rigorous academic program best suits their educational goals and learning preferences.
Education Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Outdoor Adventure in Shaping Young Minds
The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods. Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature, but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility. Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.
