Home for the Holidays: A Much-Needed Pause for Thanksgiving Break

26 October 2025William L, Ellis '26

As the first term’s long opening stretch drew to a close, a sense of collective relief and eager anticipation swept across the usually bustling halls of campus. For us students, this Thanksgiving break marked far more than just a long weekend; it was the first true break of the year following weeks of intense academic commitment. As the final transports were loaded and farewells were exchanged, students left campus, ready to replace mandatory breakfast sign-ins for late mornings and the structured hustle of school life with the quiet comfort of home and a proper family-cooked meal.

For many domestic students, the break was necessary before the final push to the midterm break and winter holidays. Milan L, Ellis ‘26, whose hometown is Richmond, BC, underscored the dual benefit of the time away. “Although the first term has been so fun, I was happy to see my family again and reunite with my hometown friends,” he shared. “But I was equally excited to return to campus with renewed energy for my studies and especially to get back onto the soccer field.” For Milan, the brief departure was a refreshing time that reinforced his connection to both family and the Brentwood community.

For other students, particularly internationals like Vittorio C, Ellis ‘26 and Jonas B, Ellis ‘26, the break was a poignant exercise in the warmth of the Brentwood family network. Unable to return to their native countries, they were embraced by Max C, Ellis ‘26 and his generous host family, ensuring they still experienced a traditional Canadian Thanksgiving in a home away from home.

Vittorio described the experience with appreciation.“I loved this Thanksgiving break. Staying at Max’s house and getting to experience true Canadian Thanksgiving was super cool, and I can’t say thank you enough to his parents for hosting us and preparing awesome steak dinners,” Vittorio explains. This tradition ensures that every student, regardless of distance, benefits from the holiday spirit of gratitude and belonging.

Mr Ma, Ellis House BFA, echoes this sentiment: “My Thanksgiving back home in Vancouver was amazing! Getting to catch up with my friends and eat good food with family is always my favourite way to spend a break.”

A huge thank you is owed to the entire Brentwood community. The host families, the parents who visited their children, and the faculty, coaches, and staff. This first term required significant effort and dedication from everyone, and this Thanksgiving respite was truly well deserved.

As we look forward to the remainder of the term, I am excited to witness the continued achievements of the student body and our greater Brentwood community. I will continue to savour each moment of this journey, understanding every day marks a significant step closer to the culmination of my Brentwood journey.

William L, Ellis ‘26

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