IMG Academy - Review #1

One aspect that might make my school unique compared to other boarding schools is the strong sense of community and support among students and faculty. Because it’s a smaller, close-knit environment, teachers are deeply involved in students’ academic and personal development, often serving as mentors beyond the classroom. This creates a family-like atmosphere where students feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow.

The best thing that happened to me in boarding school was discovering my passion for debate and public speaking. Joining the Debate Club not only helped me develop confidence and critical thinking skills but also taught me how to listen actively and engage respectfully with different viewpoints. Winning a few regional tournaments was a proud achievement, but even more meaningful was mentoring younger students and seeing their growth.Beyond specific achievements, boarding school helped me become more independent and self-disciplined. Living away from home challenged me to manage my time, balance academics with extracurriculars, and navigate relationships on my own. I grew in resilience, empathy, and leadership—qualities that have shaped who I am today. It was a transformative experience that prepared me for the next steps in life with greater confidence and maturity.

If I could go back, one thing I might have done differently is to get involved in extracurricular activities earlier. When I first arrived, I was a bit hesitant and focused mostly on academics, but joining clubs and teams sooner would have helped me build friendships faster and feel more connected to the community from the start.My advice for kids going to boarding school is to be open-minded and proactive—don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and reach out to others. Building relationships and finding your niche can make a huge difference in your experience. Also, remember to take care of yourself—balance your workload with rest and fun, and don’t hesitate to ask for support when you need it. Boarding school is a unique opportunity for growth, so make the most of it!

Overall, what I liked most about my school was the strong sense of community and the balance it offered between academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth. The close relationships with teachers and peers made it feel like a supportive family, while the wide range of opportunities allowed me to explore my interests and develop new skills. It was a place where I felt challenged, encouraged, and truly inspired to become the best version of myself.

For incoming students, my biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and get involved early. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—seek them out, whether that’s joining a club, trying a new sport, or just introducing yourself to someone new. Boarding school is what you make of it, so dive in fully and embrace the experience.As for campus favorites, the snack bar’s homemade granola bars were my go-to when I needed a quick boost between classes. Also, the library’s rooftop terrace is a hidden gem—perfect for studying with a view or just taking a peaceful break.

The academics at my school were both rigorous and deeply engaging. What I liked most was the emphasis on critical thinking and open discussion—classes were often seminar-style, which meant students were encouraged to voice their ideas, ask questions, and challenge perspectives in a respectful environment. The small class sizes made it easy to form close relationships with teachers, who were passionate about their subjects and always willing to offer extra help or mentorship. I also appreciated the variety of advanced courses offered, especially in my law class which pushed me to think more analytically and explore topics in depth.

The athletics program at my school was competitive but inclusive, offering a wide range of sports for students at all levels. What I liked most was the strong sense of team spirit and camaraderie. Whether you were on a varsity team or just playing for fun, coaches emphasized discipline, sportsmanship, and personal growth just as much as winning. The facilities were excellent, and the program encouraged students to balance physical fitness with academic life. Being part of [your specific team or sport] taught me time management, leadership, and how to work toward a common goal with others.

The Visual Arts, Music, and Theatre programs at my school were vibrant and full of opportunities for creative expression. What I liked most was how seriously the arts were taken—just as much as academics or sports.In Visual Arts, students had access to great studio spaces and could explore everything from painting and sculpture to digital media. The Music program offered individual lessons, ensemble groups, and frequent performances, creating a strong sense of community among musicians. In Theatre, I appreciated the professional-level productions and the chance to be involved in all aspects—from acting to set design.

The extracurricular activities at my school were diverse and student-driven, which made them especially meaningful. There were clubs and organizations for nearly every interest—academic, artistic, cultural, athletic, and service-oriented—and if something didn’t exist, students were encouraged to start it themselves.What I liked most was the freedom and support to explore different passions. I was able to join Debate Club, participate in community service initiatives, and attend events organized by cultural affinity groups. These activities helped me grow as a leader, meet students from different backgrounds, and learn to manage my time outside the classroom. The vibrant extracurricular life really helped create a strong, well-rounded community.

Dorm life at my school was one of the most memorable parts of the boarding experience. Living with classmates created a strong sense of community and lifelong friendships. What I liked most was the balance between independence and support—while we had the freedom to manage our own schedules, there were always dorm faculty and prefects available when we needed guidance or help.Evening check-ins, late-night study sessions, and weekend dorm events helped create a warm, family-like atmosphere. Sharing daily life with people from different backgrounds also taught me a lot about respect, collaboration, and communication. It made school feel like a second home.

The dining arrangements at my school were centered around a communal dining hall where all students and faculty ate together. Meals were served buffet-style with a variety of options, including vegetarian and allergy-sensitive choices. What I liked most was the way meals became a natural time to connect—whether catching up with friends, meeting someone new, or having a casual conversation with a teacher.Themed dinners, international food nights, and special holiday meals also added a fun and diverse element to the dining experience. It wasn’t just about eating—it was about building community around the table.

The school’s town and surrounding area had a welcoming, small-town feel with a strong sense of community. It was safe, walkable, and had just enough local cafes, shops, and restaurants to make weekends off-campus enjoyable. What I liked most was how the town felt like an extension of the school—friendly locals, familiar faces, and a calm environment that made it easy to focus on school life while still having places to relax and explore.The nearby natural areas—parks, trails, or lakes—also offered great opportunities for outdoor activities, which made the setting feel peaceful and balanced.

The social life at my school was lively and inclusive, with plenty of events and activities that brought students together outside of class. What I liked most was how easy it was to find your community—whether through clubs, sports teams, or casual hangouts in dorm common areas.There were regular dances, talent shows, movie nights, and cultural celebrations that made socializing fun and meaningful. The close-knit environment meant you could build genuine friendships across grades, and there was always something happening to help break up the academic routine. Overall, the social scene balanced fun with a strong sense of belonging.