It’s an exciting time of year for so many students who await admission decisions and make plans for the next school year. We asked four New Hampton School students (Carter Cress ’19 of Sugar Land, TX, Chris Fridlington ’19 of Laconia, NH, YeJin Na ’18 of Seoul, Korea, and Sam Rivet ’21 of Sudbury, MA) about their journey to find the right fit and what they have grown to love about their community.
YeJin “Jin” Na is a 4-year boarding student from Seoul, Korea. Jin is a full International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate. Jin also serves as an international student ambassador, house proctor, tour guide and student council member.
What made you decide to go away to boarding school and why did you choose New Hampton?
I realized that I wanted to be involved in diverse community with people of different backgrounds and cultures. Also, I fell in love with many opportunities that I could try new things such as sports, activities, academic curriculums and leadership opportunities in a place like New Hampton School. NHS taught me how to be an independent student and be able to make choices.
Which Husky has made a difference in your life thus far?
Throughout my four years of NHS, one of the Huskies who made a difference in my life was my advisor, Ms. Brown. She taught me how to be an independent student and challenge myself. She was also my IB History teacher who helped me to improve my writing skills and developed my confidence in my classes. Her approach and willingness to help me throughout the years made me feel more supportive and part of a Husky family.
Christopher Fridlington is an 11th grade day student from Laconia, New Hampshire. Chris is a full International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, active Literati member, and he plays on the men’s JV soccer team.
What’s your favorite NHS tradition?
My favorite NHS Tradition is International Night, which is a night when all of our international students share their culture with the rest of the community. There is different food, games, and performances which all reflect the different cultures of our students.
Which Husky has made a difference in your life thus far?
One person who has had a large impact on my life so far is my art teacher Ms. Wilson. I came to New Hampton with an interest in technology and art. Ms. Wilson has been really helpful in finding ways to combine these two areas in my work. This year despite not having her for IB Art she still provides feedback and helps me incorporate my other technological interests.
What advice would you offer a student during this application process?
Some advice I’d give to students in the application process is to not stress about conforming to what they think the ideal student is. New Hampton wants to know who you are, your interests, and your skills. One of New Hampton’s greatest strengths is the diversity of our students, so represent yourself.
Samantha “Sam” Rivet is a freshman boarding student from Sudbury, Massachusetts. She is President of the Class of 2021 and plays on the women’s varsity soccer and hockey teams.
What made you decide to go away to boarding school?
I decided to go to boarding school while I was a day student at my previous school that also had boarding. I witnessed first-hand the relationships formed by living with others and I wanted to experience them for myself. I also am a hockey player and the ongoing success of the girl’s hockey program along with incredible coaches made it a perfect fit.
What’s your favorite NHS tradition so far?
My favorite tradition is definitely Powder Keg. Powder Keg is a day in the fall where all of our fall sports teams face off against our rival, Tilton School. It is always nice to unleash our competitive spirit on this day, but it is more about being able to showcase our husky pride and love for New Hampton.
What advice would you offer a student during this application process?
When I walked on to New Hampton’s campus I immediately knew this is where I wanted to be. There was a feeling of home in the atmosphere and the community was centered around love and pride. Once you fall in love with a school and picture yourself thriving there you have made your decision.
Carter Cress is an 11th grade boarding student from Sugar Land, Texas. Among other activities, Carter is an enthusiastic runner for the New Hampton cross-country team, recently completing his first marathon. Carter manages the Women’s Varsity Lacrosse team and acts in the school’s theatre program. An International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, Carter is also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
What made you decide to go away to boarding school?
The school I was going to near home was limiting me. Then I realized that there were possibilities and opportunities for me elsewhere. After looking at schools from New York to Maine, I decided upon four schools and out of those New Hampton was the best one.
What advice would you offer a student during this application process?
Don’t try too hard to fit in. There are so many social groups here that you are bound to find one that you will fit in with. Along with sports and other co-curricular activities there are so many opportunities to meet new people.
Read more about student life on NHS Today, or visit the Admission pages to learn more.
