Read more details about Deerfield Academy on their 2023-24 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
One unique aspect of living in the Pioneer Valley is all the outdoor activities that come along with it. Whether it be biking, hiking to the rock, running the small loop, or swimming in the river, there are so many ways in which to get involved with the outdoors. As well, with some classes being held outdoors in the springs the teachers bring you into nature. With that, the teachers also really become like parents at your home away from home, they are all looking out for your best interests.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
I learned how to be independent and how to live by myself. It gave me a sense of freedom and responsibility from a young age which helped me mature and grow. As well, it gave me so many amazing opportunities to make new friends from all over the country and the world.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
Reach out to everyone, you never know when and where you are going to meet your best friend.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
The people and the community.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Make the most of every moment. It goes by faster than you can ever imagine.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
My professors never failed to excite my learning. They were all so engaging and encouraging, you truly felt like they wanted to help you and make sure that you succeed. This can also be seen at all of their extra help as they are there for you all throughout the day, constantly putting you first. There are so many classes to choose from, with the range increasing as you get older than well as the workload. While there is a slight competitive environment, all of your friends and peers want to see and help you succeed.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
The athletics program, while being extremely competitive, also fosters a really strong sense of team and community. You are required to participate in some sort of curricular (art, sport, community service, music, etc.). There are a range of sport options for every season, with most of the varsity teams being very strong competitors. The brand new athletic center has beautiful indoor workout space for all teams, and the gym is open to all students.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
There are a lot of options for any student to get involved, no matter your interest in the arts. There are a lot of practice studios available, as well as a recording booth.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
There are more clubs than you can imagine offered, including things like uke and bongo, chip eating club, etc. As well, there are academic clubs, alliances, music clubs, sports clubs, and everything that is in between. If you cannot find a club that works with you, it is also very easy to start your own.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Every student besides freshmen has singles, where you sign up to live in the same hall as your friends. It is really nice to be able to go back to your own space. Freshmen and sophomores live with their own grades and juniors and seniors live together. Dorms are ordered by preference and assigned by a lottery system.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
Sit down lunch Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and sit down dinner Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday. Every other meal is walk through. There are a lot of different types of food, and always a salad bar and sandwich bar at every meal.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
The surrounding area is mainly farmland, but Northampton and Amherst are both about 20-30 minutes away and Greenfield has few good food options.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
There are a lot of dances and events on campus to entertain. As well, the Greer is a really nice place to hang out with friends and get food. Finally, the common rooms are nice places to get to know and hang out with the kids on your hall.
Read more details about Deerfield Academy on their 2023-24 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
One unique aspect of living in the Pioneer Valley is all the outdoor activities that come along with it. Whether it be biking, hiking to the rock, running the small loop, or swimming in the. . .
Deerfield is smaller than many other boarding schools in New England, leading to a very tight-knit community. Each student gets to know people in every grade level very well. The tradition of sit-down meals help. . .
Deerfield has a very student-centered learning environment that encourages students to learn to ask for help and use all the resources available to them.
Deerfield also has “feeds,” when the hall associate on duty for a. . .
Show more reviews (11 reviews)
Recent Articles
Nurturing Futures: A Journey through Boarding at Haut-Lac School in Switzerland
Nestled in the hills overlooking Lake Geneva in the French-speaking part of Switzerland lies an educational gem that embodies a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness and a profound sense of community. Founded over 30 years ago, Haut-Lac International Bilingual Day and Boarding School is now home to both 600 day students and a maximum of 30 boarders from around the world.
What To Wear at Your Job Interview
Navigating job interviews can be stressful, but knowing what to wear shouldn't be. Our comprehensive guide covers the essential dress code tips for men and women interviewing at boarding schools. Make your first impression count with style and professionalism.
Navigating the Modern Maze: Emerging Challenges for Boarding Schools
Explore the pressing challenges facing boarding schools, from marketing difficulties and rising insurance costs to facility maintenance and recruitment of competent trustees and teachers. This article delves into these complex issues and proposes innovative strategies to overcome them.
