On Wednesday evening, ten recent graduates from the Classes of 2013, 2014, and 2015 returned to campus to share their experiences applying to and transitioning into high school. They represented schools all over the area, including public, private, and religious high schools. Despite their different choices and experiences, they all reiterated the same message: keep an open mind and find the school that is the best fit for you.

“I remember when I chose my school, wanting to convince my friends to come there with me,” said Corin ’14. Now a sophomore at Germantown Friends, Corin says she finally knows the names of every student in her class and has made lots of friends through her varsity soccer and lacrosse teams.

Cynthia ’15 expressed the importance of students supporting each other through the process. “Wherever your friends get in, be happy for them.” As a student at the High School for Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA), she also explained the audition process and how the school balances rehearsals and extracurricular activities with academic assignments.

Panelists shared tips for writing essays (“write about something you really care about”), interviews (“relax and have fun because they just want to get to know you better”), and the importance of visiting schools and participating in shadow days (“when I met with students and saw the vibe of the school, I knew it was the right one for me”).

Students in Grades 6-8 and their families had the opportunity to hear the young alumni as well as meet with representatives from five Quaker high schools (Abington Friends School, Friends Select School, Friends’ Central School, Germantown Friends School, and William Penn Charter School). When given the opportunity to ask the panelists questions, the first one was a no-brainer: “how much homework do you have?” wondered Alex ’17. Other students inquired about extracurricular offerings, how to impress the interviewer, dress code policies, and how schools support student individuality.

Thank you to Julie ’13, Bella ’13, Leah ’14, Desmond ’13, Isaac ’14, Corin ’14, Georgia ’14, Cynthia ’15, Michele ’14, and Miles ’14!

What advice do you have to share on how to choose a high school and life after Greene Street? Tell us!