Post-Christmas Trauma?

13 January 2013Lauren A, Allard '13

Suitcase wheels hummed as a mass of students returned to campus last Sunday. The banging of those battered suitcases being reluctantly dragged up the stairs filled the quickly crowded hallways. Shrieks of joy diminished any remaining silence as students reunited with their lifelong friends.

Brentwood students return to a room with freshly laundered number one uniforms and the looming thought of classes the following morning. Some welcome the thought; some do not. The number of times the sentences, “I’m so tired,” “When’s the next break?” or “I don’t want to go to school” are used is enough to create three instant clichés. Unpacking is either turned into a ‘rip off the bandaid’ type of deal, or it becomes an ongoing process.

Academics aren’t the only strenuous task that welcomes us back. Sports (especially varsity training) provide students with aching, distressed muscles after the long three week rest. The arts restart creativity and originality in every vacant mind; old projects must be completed and new ones begun.

The Class of 2013 try to swallow the reality of graduation in just a mere six months. University applications are not just a dream anymore, or a thought that can be pushed aside. The university counselors will be busy in the second term with anxious Grade 12s completing applications, begging to send in their marks, and ecstatically sharing the good news of acceptances.

The second term is the shortest term of the year, as well as the rainiest. The weather mimics the attitudes of students, who can grow chilly when forced to endure rugby or soccer practice in the never-ending shower. This experience, as Mr. Patel would say, improves our “grit”. Frost settles on the grass and the days are definitely chillier, but when the sun comes out it is not taken for granted; it is warmly welcomed.

Along with the second term’s challenges, there are many positives. Friendships become increasingly stronger as they are relied on for entertainment and support. No exam week also graces this term, a much appreciated plus. Academics, however, are more of a focus as the weather forces students inside. This factor also supports house bonding, bringing all the student residences closer by hanging out in the common room or watching movies.

Even though getting back into the Brentwood routine after a long holiday season isn’t the easiest, the school never fails to engulf every student with its sense of community and originality. Many opportunities and activities at Brentwood change the lethargic attitudes of its students and bring out the love they have for this magical, picturesque place.

Lauren A, Allard ‘13

Where Students Choose To Be