Read more details about Wilbraham & Monson Academy on their 2024-25 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
What I loved about Wilbraham-Monson Academy was the faculty's willingness to always be available to their students. Whether it be at the extra help period, during their free periods, after school or during study hall, faculty in all subjects are available to talk to. In addition, if a faculty member thinks you are falling behind in their class, they will get a hold of you and ask that you see them.Another great aspect of WMA was their commitment to community service. My last two years there, we held a Relay for Life each year. We also held a blood drive, which was extremely successful.The last point that I always like to point out was our gust speakers. Every month, Wilbraham-Monson Academy invited an individual, usually a CFO, president, or government official to speak to the student body about various topics. No other boarding school in the area can say they have had the former Prime Minister of England speak at a graduation, or the daughter of Martin Luther King, Jr. speak to their student body.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
Attending WMA was the best thing that happened to me. I loved the small classes and small graduating class size (I was one of only 93 students in my graduating class). I befriended so many different people and was friends with a great deal of the faculty and staff. I still keep in contact with the people I graduated with, as well as students still attending WMA and most of the faculty members. I feel as though I have become a much better person because of WMA, and I am forever grateful.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I would not have changed anything. Attending Wilbraham-Monson was the greatest thing that has happened to me. Boarding school is a fantastic experience, and I wish every student could experience what I experienced.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
I loved everything about WMA. From the friendliness of the faculty, to the students, to the administration. I loved everything.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
The Student Lounge (AKA the Spa) is the best place to grab a quick snack before class. Cathy, the Spa "mom" as she has come to be known as, is a wonderful woman and works quickly. All of the Spa staff are friendly and are always there to listen about your day or your weekend.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Wilbraham-Monson Academy only hires the best faculty and staff members that apply for a position. The work load is similar to that of what one might expect at college, which fits for a private school that strives to prepare its student for college. Students compete for the top GPA of their class, which pushes students to do their best. WMA strives for excellence.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Although WMA strives for a solid education, the athletics department is just as strong. There is a sport or activity for every student, no matter their interest. Students are expected to participate in 2 sports and 1 activity per year. Students may also participate in 3 athletic areas if they wish. The faculty members ARE the coaches, so you get to know all of the faculty members, whether you have them in class or on the field. The coaching staff know what they are talking about, especially since most coach the sports they are interested in and competed in during their college experience.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
At Wilbraham-Monson Academy, a play or performance is put on every trimester. The faculty member who instructs the performances is also the class instructor. They are completely qualified to teach these courses and direct wonderful performances.The art classes are also spectacular. I, myself, took 2 art classes and loved them. Art classes range from beginner status to advanced, ceramics, photography, etc.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
There aren't too many student organizations or volunteer opportunities at WMA. There is, however, Student Government, Gold Key, GSA, and Community Service.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
I wasn't a boarding student, but I was good friends with boarders. Every weekend, trips off campus are arranged with faculty members who go along with the students. Faculty members are also the drivers. Most boarders ordered take-out from a vast variety of dining places in the area if they felt the need to eat something after the dining hall closed.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
WMA provides a great variety of foods. There is a hot lunch line, soup bar, sandwich bar, salad bar, and beverage bar. Dining hall hours coincided with the student schedule, so during your free period, you could grab lunch. There is no assigned seating, and getting seconds is always welcome. The quality of the food is amazing and there is always something to eat, whether you are a vegetarian or love meat.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
The town of Wilbraham is quite small. But right next to campus, basically on-campus, is a coffee shop and pharmacy. There is also a mall approximately 10 minutes down the road. A public library is only a 5 minute walk off-campus, if that. There are also 2 banks available to students, which is quite nice.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
What I loved about attending WMA was the diversity of the student population. By the time you graduate, you are friends with people from all over the world... literally. When I graduated, I had made friends with people from England, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Hungry, Spain, and Mexico. I had quite the exciting social life, as I knew everyone I came across and was able to know each and every one of them by name.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
7:45 AM
Free period
8:30 AM
Statistics (math)
9:15 AM
Free period
10:00 AM
Student Meeting
10:30 AM
Extra Help period
11:00 AM
Lunch
11:45 AM
Business class (Elective)
12:30 AM
English
3:15 PM
AP Environmental Studies (Science)
3:30 PM
Afternoon activity or sport
Weekend
10:00 AM
Sport Competition
2:00 PM
Trip off-campus to a mall or other fun activity
Read more details about Wilbraham & Monson Academy on their 2024-25 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
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I think WMA is extremely unique when it comes to the diversity and cultures that students are exposed to. Throughout my years at WMA I have met many students from different parts of the United. . .
I attending WMA and unlike any other private school I was able to receive a global education, create great relationships and visit places all over the world. . .
One aspect that sets Wilbraham and Monson Academy a part from other similar private institutions is the CEGS Department. CEGS stands for Center for Entrepreneurial and Global Studies, and is in place of a traditional. . .
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