Read more details about Ashbury College on their 2026 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
Ashbury gave me the space to find my own balance between structure and independence. It wasn’t a cookie-cutter school, it encouraged individuality, while still challenging us to aim higher. What really stood out was the leadership culture. We weren’t just following rules as we were part of the decision-making. Whether it was prefects giving input on school policy or students proposing events, we were trusted with responsibility. For me, it was a springboard.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
Captaining the rugby team and organizing our fundraiser for new gear, that was a highlight. I left with confidence I never had going in.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I wish I’d joined the arts earlier or signed up for a leadership trip. Ashbury offers more than you can possibly absorb so say yes to more.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
One thing that really stood out for me was the school’s global mindset. We didn’t just talk about issues like climate change or ethical innovation we engaged with them directly through class debates, guest speakers, and events like Round Square. The fact that we had students from around the world, plus teachers who brought global experience, meant the conversations felt real and relevant.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Yogurt parfaits. Trust me. And the rugby pitch at dusk, it’s where everything made sense. If you're boarding, Macdonald House is where it's at.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
The IB program was demanding but it taught us how to manage complexity, not just workloads. I loved economics and business management, and Ms. Fry was one of those rare teachers who could actually connect theory to real-world relevance. We debated market crashes, ran simulations, and pitched projects. It wasn’t just about memorizing for exams it was about learning to ask better questions.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Rugby taught me everything about leadership, failure, and grit. The spirit we built on the field translated into confidence everywhere else. I still remember our undefeated season like it was yesterday and not because of the wins, but because of how we lifted each other through the hard stuff.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
I wasn’t a lead actor, but I did backstage work lighting and set design mostly. That gave me a whole new appreciation for storytelling and teamwork.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
From robotics to launching a business pitch night, Ashbury gave you the tools to lead. The school wasn’t scared of letting students take real ownership and that trust helped build confidence that stuck.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
I boarded for one year. Lived with people from five countries. We’d cook together, study together, and figure out conflict the hard way and that is by talking. Honestly, that year taught me more about teamwork and empathy than any class.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The Sunday brunches were legendary. Food wasn’t just food, it was community time.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Ottawa was a perfect hybrid not too big, not too small. Between trips to Sens games and business meetups downtown, I got exposed to a lot outside the classroom.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
People were chill. There weren’t “types” you’d see athletes at open mics, tech kids in student council. It was real.
Read more details about Ashbury College on their 2026 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
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Description
One aspect that makes Ashbury College unique is the balance it creates between academic challenge and a close, supportive community. As a boarding student, I was surrounded by people from different backgrounds and countries, which. . .
Ashbury gave me what I needed for two intense years. Coming from Tunisia to Ottawa for grades 11 and 12 meant big adjustment, but the school supported international students through it. The IB programme pushed. . .
When I first arrived at Ashbury College, what struck me most was how seamlessly it blended tradition with innovation. The campus felt classic, nestled in Ottawa’s Rockcliffe Park, but everything inside, from smart boards in. . .
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