Whenever I tell anyone that I went to a prep school one of the most common questions I get back is "Why would you pay for high school"? There are arguments for both sides, but I truly believe the things that I learned there I couldn't have learned at any other school. Looking back, going to a prep school allowed me to meet so many different types of people, have many different opportunities, and receive a great education all at once. Here are some of the most valuable things I learned.
1. People from different countries aren't as intimidating as one may think.
In my high school there were so many people with different nationalities. Coming in as a freshman it was a little overwhelming, and almost intimidating. I initially always thought that we'd have nothing in common, or anything to talk about, but that was very naive of me. Once I reached out I've found that there's really no difference between these individuals other than where we were raised, and now I consider some my closest friends.
2. Dress code actually helps you after high school.
The dress code at my school became stricter each year I moved up a grade, but like most girls at my school, we always found a way around it. Whether it was not having a collared shirt, wearing open toed shoes, or having a dress that was slightly above "fingertip" length, it was something that became the norm. In between not following the dress code, I eventually learned what the actual dress code was, and that served me best. In college, and for the rest of my adult life, knowing what's appropriate to wear, and just knowing how to dress, in general, is great knowledge. After all, you only have one first impression.
3. You end up missing the hectic schedule
From having something to do from 8am - 5pm everyday, to having all the time in world - apart from your college classes of course - is a big jump. Yes, in college, you can sign up for clubs, go out with friends, and even sit down and do some school work, but it's not the same. It's exciting having all of the new found freedom, but it's initially hard to get used to. Overall, it helps with the workload in college, it ultimately feels similar (and sometimes less) than the workload in high school.
All in all, the little things in high school that you don't realize are making an effect on you, actually end up making a huge difference in your life as you move on into the adult world. Going to a prep school is once of the best decisions my parents ever made for me, and I'll be forever grateful for that opportunity.
