Brentwood Student Guide 101

6 August 2013Mollie G

If any of you new students out there are like my past self, you are currently searching the web for ANY information that you can get about your new school. I remember the summer before my arrival at Brentwood quite clearly. I recall, desperately, anxiously, seeking out any photos, any information about my new boarding school and feeling rather frustrated when I could not find anything that matched my abundant inquiries.
Look no further future Brentonians. I’ve got you covered. Here is extensive look at the life of a Brentonian. Orientation: New students arrive on campus before the returning students, so you can experience a fun-filled 3 days called Orientation. During this time, you get to unpack, get settled in and get to know your way around school. Orientation is such a BLAST! There are treasure hunts through the school, information sessions, an exciting Fun and Games Night, and a Welcome Back Dance. Uniforms: Whether you are pro uniform or totally against them, you don’t really have a choice here at Brentwood. Honestly? They’re pretty cool, plus you save a good 10 minutes in the morning by already having an outfit picked out. Sports: The athletic program at Brentwood is FANTASTIC. Whether you’re a varsity athlete or simply seeking a new thrill, Brentwood offers a variety of choice. From what I’ve heard, junior girls soccer with Mr. Collis is pretty exciting, third term tennis is always sunny, and rugby and rowing are always good workouts. Arts: Painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture, photography, dance, acting, singing, musical theatre, there really isn’t an Art that Brentwood doesn’t offer. Three times a week, students attend a minimum of two art blocks of their choice. Pottery with Mrs. Elmes is a super popular pick while the Musical Theater crew puts on an incredible show every year (it’s definitely worth trying out!). Classes on Saturday?!: Okay, I know what you’re thinking!!! Having classes on Saturday seems like a total rip off, but on the bright side you get a sleep in, there are usually waffles in the dining hall, and you only have to go to three classes! Rainy Days: Sometimes it rains in Mill Bay… but don’t be discouraged. There are plenty of things to avoid a grumpy mood, including, going for walks on the beach, cuddling up with friends and watching movies and getting some coffee at Rusty’s! Don’t believe me? I wrote an entire blog on staying happy during the greyer days at Brentwood. Check out http://www.brentwood.bc.ca/blog/blog-articles/article/cold-and-rain-is-your-reality.html Food: The food at Brentwood is awesome. And if you’re a picky eater, like some of us, there is always a salad bar, sandwich bar, cereal bar, hot food, cold food, vegan option, gluten free option, lactose intolerant option and plenty of dessert. I think you get the point… Roommates: Rooming with another person may be one of the scariest aspects of boarding school. Have no fear, your future roommate is most definitely just as nervous as you are, and you guys will most likely end up the best of friends. In the House: The best part about living at school? Your best friends are within 5 minutes ALL OF THE TIME. It is like a never-ending sleepover. Sundays: 90% of the time, Sundays are the days to do whatever you please. You can sleep in until 3pm or make your way down to the dining hall for an INCREDIBLE all-you-can-eat brunch. As my days at Brentwood approached an end in June, I thought of all you future Brentonians and the amazing times that you have yet to experience. Brentwood is not only a school, it is a home, a place where fellow students become your best friends, and your teachers become your mentors. A tip to all attending Brentwood in the fall: don’t be nervous! All of you are going to be amazing here. Savor every second of your time at Brentwood, it goes by way too fast and soon enough you’ll be wishing you could do it all over again. I know I do. Mollie G, Mackenzie ‘13

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