During the first few weeks of the school year, freshmen faced obstacles and learned to adapt to the Upper School environment. Both new students and those who graduated from the pre-K to 8 division had to gain an understanding of the rotating schedule as well as the social landscape. Freshman Madison Paxton talks about the benefits of the student center. There are many different activities and things to do in the student center. There are several ping pong tables, gaming consoles, vending machines, couches and many tables to hang out at.
“I really like hanging out in the student center because I like how there is so many things to do. My friends and I often sit on the couches and play ping pong, and if we have homework, we do that.” Paxton said.
Traditionally, the faculty aids the freshmen in this transition by way of an iPeriod called Freshmen Experience, where boys and girls are separated and taught how to be a successful student in regard to academics, conduct and tradition. Freshman Rodrigo Arce is a new boarding student who talks about the new I-period and how it helps him adapt to the school’s community.
“In the class Freshmen Experience I learned that everyone has feelings and if you are feeling bad you have to tell a teacher. Another thing I learned to do is clean up after myself.” Arce said.
The Freshmen Experience class helps new freshman deepen their knowledge about the community. They do this by having guest speakers and little lessons like writing emails, talking to faculty and many more.
The school has a lot of international people from all over the world because it is a boarding school so many kids from all over the world come and attend at the school. Even with all of the cultures colliding, the students manage to band together during fun events that freshman Brynn Lofties mentions.
“I love attending all of the activities that Darlington holds like the back to school bash, the football games, the volleyball, games and the fresh fest. I love going to these things because it helps me connect to my other classmates and it helps me get to know new people and helps me blend into the culture of the school.” Lofties said.
Some of these activities also include the back-to-school bash, RUMPUS, sporting events, Centennial cup and many more.
“I love the Darlington community because it makes me feel included, and it lets me get to know so many different people because of all the diversity, and I love being a part of it and go tigers,” Paxton said.