Mackenzie House – Reflections of A Lifer

15 July 2019Jemma O’Malley, Mackenzie ‘19

In Grade 8, Mrs Patel had a reading dialogue with each of her students where we discussed the books that we were reading at the time. In it, Mrs Patel gave me a piece of wisdom that I believe applies so well today. On March 29th, 2015, she wrote that “There is a reason why virtually every adult you speak with would not want to return to their adolescent years. I am quite convinced that they are the toughest. But take heart, all of the learning that you do during these tough years will serve you well in years to come.” I think these words so eloquently summarize high school for a lot of us. Adolescence is a difficult time. The amount of change and growth that happens between the ages of 13 and 18 is massive, and is definitely enough to kindle insecurity and confusion. Being at Brentwood for five years has given me, and I think many of us, opportunities to gain confidence in all three of Brentwood’s areas of focus. But, and I think more importantly, it has given us confidence in ourselves. What makes a place or experience impactful is not really the place or the experience, but the people involved. I can tell you confidently that the people at Brentwood are what and who I will remember 50 years from now. This can truly be attributed to the houseparents and faculty who have impacted all of our lives during our time at the school. Mackenzie House is so lucky. Ms Cheung, Mr Robinson, and Ms Coy, among many other incredible duty staff, are genuinely passionate about their roles at the school. Ms Cheung leads the house with empathy and commitment to making the house feel like a home. Ms Coy’s energy and advice is always timely and uplifting. Mr Robinson’s weekly Tea Time demonstrates his kindness and genuine interest in building connections with Brentwood students. All three of these people are supportive in the house, helpful in the classroom, and will give you a hug when you need it. These people, and the huge amount of hours they pour into our lives, are so very valuable. The connections and relationships we have built are what we will take with us. Being surrounded by passionate teachers and a caring faculty inspire and shape the people we will become. And for that, I think we are all grateful. Jemma O’Malley, Mackenzie ‘19

Where Students Choose To Be