The Brooks Experience

Jennie says:

After being chosen as the candidate for the school exchange with Brooks School, Massachusetts, I was extremely nervous and excited about the prospect of studying abroad. But, as soon as I arrived in Boston, my nerves disappeared and I felt right at home. The students there were friendly, welcoming and keen to get to know me.

Even within the first week, I had made many lifelong friends and got to know people I would not otherwise have met.

On attending my first class I discovered that my time there would not be entirely devoted to socialising. The lessons were extremely challenging and stimulating, and pushed me to be more independent in my studies. Along with the Boston Red Sox souvenirs and a new taste for lobster, this skill was certainly something I brought back with me to Scotland and will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Jennie, March 2011

 

Fraser says:

The Brooks exchange is one of the more unique opportunities given to pupils at Glenalmond.

I remember expressing in my application essay my desire to make my first visit to America as it seemed central to my A Levels; studying American novels in English and American government in politics. While at the time this may have been an attempt to convince the judging panel that I was motivated by the right reasons, not just a desire to spend six weeks in the States and avoid a Scottish winter and the steeplechase, my experiences in America were of great value to my A Levels and added to my cultural experiences as well.

From the big things like spending two days in Washington DC, to the more routine, the possibilities of the exchange were wide ranging.

Community service offers a chance to see the side of America not shown on the TV, while the vast number of student-led charity events is remarkable.

The people of Brooks were incredibly friendly and welcoming and it quickly became home. Huge thanks must go to Mr Wright whose passion for the exchange means it continues to flourish.

Fraser, March 2011