Read more details about Brentwood College School on their 2025-26 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
If I had to describe what made Brentwood different from any other school, it was that sense of family woven through everything from the thrill of athletics to the calm moments watching the tide sway past the boathouse at dawn. When I think about what made Brentwood truly special, it’s the way the school feels like a second home by the sea, surrounded by forests, and held together by a powerful sense of community. Brentwood didn’t just teach me algebra or history; it taught me how to be part of something larger than myself. Whether I was lacing up my basketball shoes or heading to class, I always felt supported by the people around me.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
The best part of Brentwood was learning to find your strength by leaning into others’ support. I used to think being strong meant doing everything alone but here, I discovered strength in vulnerability.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
If I could whisper advice to my younger self I’d say embrace every misstep, every “no,” and every handshake, those are the connections that become your foundation.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
What matters most about Brentwood isn’t what the school taught me but it’s who I became because of it. Someone grounded in community, empathetic in leadership, and confident enough to pursue what truly matters
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
To the next group of Braves please watch the fog roll in over the bay at dawn, cheer with all your lungs at Regatta, and stay for the post-game conversations in the dorm. Every little moment will become part of your story. And yes, never turn down a brownie after practice; trust me.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Academically, the IB program pushed me further than I ever expected but it also surrounded me with teachers who genuinely cared. I remember late Tuesday study sessions with Ms. Daniels, laughing over ridiculous mnemonic devices for algebra. Those were the people who made the challenges feel possible, who reminded me that learning wasn't just about acing tests but really understanding and growing each day.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Playing varsity basketball at Brentwood was real even if I wasn’t the highest scorer, I prided myself on being one of the most consistent defenders. Winning “Best Defensive Player” in the league reinforced that my effort mattered. Coach Greer taught our team about more than plays; he instilled integrity, grit, and teamwork, of which I carry every guttural “defense!” chant with me. It reminded me that effort and consistency can shine just as brightly as scoring points. I learned that the fiercest defenders aren’t the loudest—they’re the ones who quietly work, hustle every play, and inspire others by example.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
While theatre and art weren’t my strong suit, I always appreciated my friends who performed or created. Their passion reminded me how diverse talents at Brentwood were celebrated. Supporting them from the sidelines taught me the value of encouragement even when you’re not center stage.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
I may not have led a club, but helping behind the scenes whether it was handing out water at the Regatta or carrying chairs for events helped me feel that I belonged to the larger Brentwood story. Community is built by everyone’s contributions, big and small.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Living in Tom Allen House, my dormmates became my family. We studied late, shared playlists, laughed about school inside jokes, and checked on each other during tough times. The community we built made Flannel Nights and movie runs memories I'll cherish forever.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The dining hall always felt like a cozy hub. I especially recall double hash browns with Mrs. Patterson something about that ritual made game-day mornings feel put together and full of energy.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Mill Bay may be quiet, but it felt alive when we wandered into town for coffee or milkshakes after a long week. The warmth of local support, from regatta cheers to friendly hellos, reminded me how connected Brentwood was to its island roots. It felt small, but walking into town for a snack felt like being part of something broader than the school gates. Locals rooting for us at regattas or knowing our names made life outside school just as meaningful.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
I feel social life wasn’t flashy but it was in shared laughter, house gatherings, and spontaneous road trips to see sunsets. Spirit Week, bonfire nights, and just hanging out on the lawn under the stars, that was the glue. Those small bonds were the heartbeat of our social life.
Read more details about Brentwood College School on their 2025-26 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Brentwood is unique compared to other schools because it has strong emphasis on the tripod system, academics, arts, and athletics are equally valued. For me, rowing became a huge part of my identity here, but. . .
Brentwood wasn’t just the place I went to school; it was the place that shaped how I see myself and the world. Coming from Vancouver, I thought I had a sense of community already, but. . .
If I had to describe what made Brentwood different from any other school, it was that sense of family woven through everything from the thrill of athletics to the calm moments watching the tide sway. . .
Show more reviews (16 reviews)
Recent Articles
Why Consider Boarding School in 2025: Costs & Benefits
Explore why families choose boarding school in 2025. Updated tuition, aid, demographics, and outcomes for students’ academic and personal growth.
Free Boarding Schools 2025: Tuition-Free Boarding Options
Explore 2025 tuition-free boarding school options, where and how they offer free boarding, eligibility, and real examples for families.
Boarding School Myths Debunked 2025: Truths for Parents
Separate fact from fiction: real data and 2025 updates debunk common boarding school myths for families considering this path.
