Be Yourself Here

THE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO WILLISTON

BE YOURSELF HERE

The moment you step on campus, you’ll feel it.

Williston is more than a school, it’s a community—a caring fellowship of teachers, advisors, coaches, and classmates—who make sure you’ll feel at home from day one. We excel at helping students explore their passions (or discover new ones) with that just-right mix of inspiration, challenge, and support. In our classrooms, studios, athletic facilities, and dorms, we inspire students to live with purpose, passion, and integrity. Because at Williston, what matters is not just what you’ll accomplish as a student—but who you will become as a person. But don’t take our word for it: on the following pages, you can hear insights and experiences from more than twenty Williston students.

“Williston is special because people genuinely want to know how you’re doing. You walk into the dining hall and someone says, ‘That math test was really hard—how are you feeling?’ It’s the small things like that that really make it feel like home.”

FRANCESCA A boarding student from Connecticut, Francesca is one of those students who seems to be involved in every aspect of the school. A three-sport varsity athlete (lacrosse, diving, and cross-country) with NEPSAC and league medals in her trophy cabinet, Francesca also has deep academic passions and recently explored the impact of climate change on food insecurity in her Williston Scholars project. In addition, Francesca also serves as a proctor in the dorms, is on Student Council, and leads Williston’s Active Minds club, which is dedicated to improving and strengthening physical and mental health in students. Her work in the classroom and community was recognized with the Harvard Book Award in her junior year, given to a student who displays exemplary scholarship, citizenship, and character.

Engage with Ideas “My science teacher taught me to approach a problem and not give up. During a lab, I’d get frustrated and ask him what the experiment was showing, and he’d say, ‘You have to figure it out!’ Persevering academically is something I took away from that class and still rely on all the time.”

MAGGIE A boarding student from Maine, Maggie is the editor of the school yearbook, a role that has sparked her love of photography and graphic design. “Being the editor gives me a special window on the school today and historically,” she says. Williston actually is a part of her own family’s history—her mom, Melissa, graduated in 1991 and her sister Teaghan in 2024. In addition to a busy schedule of AP and honors classes, Maggie also plays field hockey, is on the swim and dive team, and does sports photography.

Do you have a lot of options when choosing classes?

ACACIA Acacia, a boarding student from Connecticut, can often be found in Williston’s art studios. “I love ceramics. It’s so creative, and my teachers have pushed to to experiment and try new things.” Acacia also fell in love with poetry since arriving, first in her English classes and now as a contributor to the school literary magazing, Janus.

FINN While Finn, a day student, has appreciated the ability to grow as a student and as an athlete, he points to his ability to grow as a person as a big key in his experience. “Williston encourages you to grow into yourself. We have a program here called Core, which develops your role in the community and makes you feel like you really belong.”

“Students get a lot of freedom to choose what they want to pursue. There’s a wide range of AP courses and collegeprep ones, but we also have fun electives, like forensics and architecture.”

—RICHARD

“Being able to explore different classes, especially ones you didn’t think you’d ever take, is amazing. My elective classes have helped me decide what I want to major in for college.”

—DARYN

What class has really challenged you?

“I’ve loved my history and language Scholars classes, which have taught me so much about independent research. I’ve gotten to dive into topics like climate change and its impact on food security.”

—FRANCESCA

“My AP Chem class has pushed me a lot. The material is hard and the labs are challenging, but it’s really rewarding when you figure out the solutions.

I’ve learned so much.”

—MIA

“My chemistry class definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone in academics. I really had to get comfortable feeling uncomfortable that I didn’t know all the answers. And then I could really learn.”

—ZORA

“AP Language Composition.

I’ve wanted to really strengthen my writing, an being in a college-level course has challenged me to have a fluency and depth to my writing.”

—RICHARD

“Coming from a public school, I’d never had a class that was as rigorous at my AP Calculus AB class last year.

At first it was a shock, but I eased myself into it, and starting learning more. It was rewarding to push myself.”

“My AP U.S. Government and Politics class has really pushed my critical thinking and work ethic. It’s challenged my thinking on a lot of topics and helped me to be more knowledgable about the world around me.”

—HAYDEN

—ZH’KY

“I love to write and read, so AP English Language has been a great experience. We read so many perspectives from different periods of literature, and because the classes are small, we can have really open and interesting discussions.”

—ALIA

“I didn’t have a favorite subject coming here, but then I took chemistry and just fell in love with problem-solving and math analysis that’s part of that. It really combines everything I’m interested in.”

—ADDISON

“My tenth grade AP World History class was the first AP class I took, and I was nervous about how I’d handle it. But the discussions were amazing, and my teacher was there for extra help when I needed it.”

—BROOKS

“Ninth grade physics was very challenging, especially the math, but through it, I learned that I had a new and passionate interest in astronomy and space. I think that is really cool.”

—VIVIANA

OUR AP AND HONORS CLASSES ENGLISH

AP English Language AP English Literature Honors Williston Scholars English Honors Writers’ Workshop HISTORY AND GLOBAL STUDIES

AP Comparative Government AP European History AP Macroeconomics AP Microeconomics AP United States Government and Politics AP United States History AP World History AP African American History Honors Williston Scholars History and Global Studies LANGUAGE

Honors French II Honors French III Honors French V AP French Language Honors Latin II Honors Latin III Honors Latin IV AP Latin Honors Spanish II Honors Spanish III Honors Spanish V AP Spanish Language Honors Williston Scholars Language MATHEMATICS

Honors Geometry Honors Algebra II Honors Precalculus Honors Discrete Mathematics AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC and Multivariable Calculus AP Computer Science AP Computer Science Principles AP Statistics Honors Williston Scholars Mathematics SCIENCE

Honors Physics

Honors Chemistry Honors Biology AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Environmental Science AP Physics I AP Physics II AP Physics C AP Psychology Honors Williston Scholars Science VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

AP Music Theory AP Studio Art Honors Williston Scholars Visual Arts Honors Williston Scholars Performing Arts

ADDISON Addision was drawn to Williston for its academics and for the chance to play on the soccer and lacrosse teams. As a day student, she’s thrived both academically and athletically here, last year winning the Smith Book prize, the highest honor for sophomores, traveling to Alaska on a science research trip, and playing in a NEPSAC championship game in soccer. Now a three-sport athlete (she started squash last winter), she’s made friends from around the world. “My closest friends are from the Dominican Republic or Korea or different states, and then I have teammates who are older and younger than I am. Those relationships help you learn so much about other people and cultures, and about yourself.”

“I love the community and the teachers here.

From the moment you walk on campus, you feel the warmth and are surrounded by people who want to uplift you.

The teachers strive to form strong connections with their students and really help you reach your highest potential.”

Explore Your Passions “The dance ensemble is a very tight-knit group and being a captain has been a great leadership opportunity.

I’ve gotten to teach others and be a choreographer, which is exciting because that is what I’d like to do in the real world someday.”

ZH’KY Zh’ky came to Williston wanting to continue dancing as his main passion, but looking for other challenges and opportunities to expand his knowledge.

A boarding student from Bermuda, Zh’ky has excelled on stage, and taken on big leadership roles away from it.

A proctor in our freshman boys dorm and an admissions tour guide, Zh’ky notes that being able to be there for classmates and friends is an invaluable part of his experience. “We’re all in this together, and we all should help each other through it.”

REECE “There are a million opportunities here, and with that, there are so many ways to figure out who you really are.” Reece, a day student, came to Williston with a few ideas on what he liked. Since then, his passions have grown beyond anything he could dream. From competing in track and field to discovering a love of physics, Reece has embraced being able to learn at every step.

What’s a passion you’ve found at Williston?

“I took a journalism class and just fell in love. I really like being part of the newspaper and learning what everyone in the community has to say about issues.”

—HAYDEN

ONION “The process of learning is really organized here, so freshman year, we learn how to write an essay, going step by step, to make sure everyone can do it.” A boarding student from Vietnam, Onion has become the face and voice of his class. He writes the daily student email that sets the tone for each day, and recently he won the school’s first-ever speech contest, and had the lead role in last winter’s musical.

He also keeps people connected by working with our Asian Alliance Club and running the Board Game Club.

“I always wanted to learn how to play volleyball, and at Williston I finally got the chance to join an intro level volleyball team and learn to play. I have made so many new friends and it has been really, really fun.”

—ALIA

RYAN Ryan, a boarding student from New York, is a college-bound student athleted—headed to Colby College next year—but defies the stereotype of being a jock. At Williston, he has blended his commitment to athletics with his dedication to learning, challenging himself with three AP courses this year. “The teachers are open to helping me put my best foot forward,” Ryan says. “I talk all the time with my advisor, my college advisor, other teachers, and they all want to help. They put me on the best path to success, and they’ve been amazingly supportive of me on this journey.”

VIVIANA Viviana’s artwork decorates the hallways of Reed Campus Center, but the studio is not the only place she’s found inspiration. Challenged by her coursework to speak in public, Vivana, a boarding student from Vermont, has fallen in love with public speaking and public service. “I think stepping out of my comfort zone has helped my selfconfidence and growth.”

She adds: “With any activity you’re involved in or have an interest in, you can find it offered here. The people and the campus can accommodate for what you need—and that’s a really nice feeling.”

HAYDEN A boarding student from Florida, Hayden arrived at Williston as a dedicated hockey player, but quickly brought his dedication to all aspects of student life.

One of our most prolific tour guides, Hayden greets everyone with a smile and a helping hand. “People here help you get better at whatever you want to be better at.” Hayden has enjoyed pushing his academic edge here—he’s now taking AP English, AP Stats, and AP Bio—and cites the systematic learning approach at Williston as key. “The process of learning is really organized. They give you the building blocks and skills freshman year, so by the time you’re a senior, you feel confident writing essays or tackling advanced math.”

What’s a favorite moment from Williston?

“Every Sunday, my friends and I have what we call family dinner. We order food, sit in the third-floor common room, watch a show, and talk.

We’re not on our phones—just spending time together. It’s really relaxing and one of my favorite parts of the week.”

—ACACIA

“Winning the bowl game last year was unforgettable.

Beyond the win itself, having such a big crowd and seeing students show up meant a lot.

We support other teams by attending games, so having that same energy returned was very special.”

—RYAN

“My first Willie Gras had a Mario Kart theme. I didn’t expect much, but it turned out to be one of the most fun experiences I’ve had. Being on the Quad with friends, surrounded by water slides, bounce houses, and pure joy, reminded everyone let go of stress and to just have fun.”

“Last Spring, at an advisory dinner at Ms. Kokozska’s house, she cooked Dominican food from her culture, and we sat together in her living room.

It felt like a family gathering— warm, personal, and special. Moments like these have shaped my Williston experience.”

—DARYN

—ALIA

“Pink in the Rink, especially during my sophomore year, allowed us to play for something bigger than ourselves. We raised nearly $10,000 for a cause deeply important to me and my family, and it truly showed me how supportive and united our community is.”

“My first dance performance was overwhelming in the best way—so many people showed up, cheered me on, and supported me. It made me feel like I could truly be myself and share my passion without judgment. That moment taught me that I belong here.”

“When everyone returns after a long break, there’s a renewed appreciation for Williston and for each other—full of hugs, excitement, and catching up. It always gives me a fresh perspective and reminds me that this is a place I truly want to be.”

—ZH’KY

—MAGGIE

“Open mic night takes place before winter break, everyone gathers in Tandem, a small, cozy space where there’s hot chocolate, iced chai, and snacks, and we sing favorite songs—Springsteen, Hamilton, and holiday songs.

It’s truly special.”

“On the Williston summer Alaska trip, I roomed with five girls. We spent twelve days disconnected from the internet, kayaking, visiting research sites, and stargazing.

It was amazing how quickly we bonded, and the trip helped me realize how much I love science and research.”

—MIA

“One of the best moments of my Williston career was when our swim team won the Division II NEPSAC championship with an undefeated season. It was such a rewarding experience for the entire team. Seeing Coach K. jump into the pool after the win was unforgettable.”

—BROOKS

—FRANCESCA

—ADDISON

Learn and Lead

“Ever since my first day, I always looked up to my proctors. I love that I’m able to be that guy for freshmen now. Just being able to be that person they can come to and look up to, it’s such a rewarding leadership position.”

BROOKS As a freshman, Brooks was blown away by the support from his dorm proctors. To return the favor, Brooks—a boarding student from Massachusetts—has stepped up into leadership roles, and is now a proctor himself in the freshman boys dorm. Along the way, he’s found new passions, including trying water polo for the first time, and challenging himself in the classroom by taking AP and honors courses—knowing that along the way, he’d have someone to ask for help. “At Williston, I know that I have these resources and a team of people who just want me to succeed.

I’m so grateful for that.”

What’s the support system here like?

ALIA For Alia, the ability to pursue her passion for science and math and discover many new interests, like English, photography, community service, and volleyball, has been a huge part of Williston. “I feel like I can be a lot of things here; you don’t have to be in a box.”

She also loves her small class sizes: “We really get to bond and talk about the material. You can connect on a deeper level, which I think is special.”

“Coach Talbot helped me a lot, especially with how to focus on my studies and playing hockey. But, really, the entire faculty are so supportive and always there for you no matter what.”

—MIA

ROWAN A talented student athlete and boarder from Massachusetts, Rowan has found his people at Williston. Pushed on by his coaches, Rowan is a tour guide, Student Council representative, and all-around leader.

His dedication was recognized last year, when he recieved the Head of School Prize, an award given to a 10th grader who best exemplifies the qualities of purpose, passion, and integrity.

“A big reason I chose Williston,” he says, “is to set myself up for college.

I’ve learned how to be a good student, manage my time, and get my work done.”

“The writing center is such a helpful resource to me. If I’m writing an essay for English class or working on a story for the newspaper, and need some extra help, I can stop by and get feedback in real time. It’s amazing.”

—ZORA

Find Your People

“Some people say don’t be roommates with your friends, but I really like it. Having the roommate experience here is beneficial in terms of fostering a friendship.”

ESTHER Friendships at Williston start on the very first day of orientation. Esther and her roommate, Haydeh, came from opposite sides of the country (Esther is from Massachusetts; Hadyeh from California) and had very different personalities, but sparked a connection that led to being roommates in Emily McFadon Vincent House. Their connection also gave each an introduction to different friend groups they might not have otherwise interacted with. And while Esther enjoys plenty of quiet moments—including knitting when she finds the time—her connection to the dorm, her fellow classmates, and dorm parents is strong.

“There’s a lot of sisterhood. We’re girls in different grades, different ages, and we just get along with each other.”

AMIR A boarding student from New Jersey, Amir is a huge sports fan, and at Williston, has really gotten into photographing and filming athletics and campus life. Whether he’s taking pictures at a sporting event or creating a social media clip of the Residential Quad on the weekend, Amir likes capturing what he’s seeing. “When you’re just hanging out with friends on campus, its a lot of fun. It’s something that I’ve really grown to enjoy.” When he’s not holding a camera, Amir is still finding joy cheering on classmates from the stands. “Sports games are where you can start making friends,” he said. “It’s one of the best times to get to know people.”

ZORA “I really love the boarding community,” says Zora, who hails from Georgia.

“There’s something really special about coming back and talking to your roommate after practice or hanging out with your best friends in the common room.”

In addition to taking a rigorous course load, Zora also plays field hockey and lacrosse and is an admission intern.

FIVE FUN THINGS YOU’LL LOVE ABOUT DORM LIFE AT WILLISTON 1. An instant social life, with studymates, classmates, and teammates. Imagine living in a house with a bunch of your best friends. Our boarders often describe their dormmates as being their support network.

2. Amazing dorm parents who plan fun events and mentor you.

Williston’s dorm parents help guide you with decisions, involve you in dorm traditions, and are there to listen when you need to talk.

3. Common spaces to hang out in. Comfy couches, mini kitchens, pool tables—our dorms are designed around places to relax and study with your friends.

PEARL AND GABBY Pairing up with a new roommate can be a scary proposition—but it can also be one of the most rewarding connections made at Williston.

Gabby and Pearl admit they have very different personalities, but each hit the “dorm lottery” when they were paired up their first year and continued to be friends through graduation.

“You’re making a friend that knows your living style, and knows you on a deeper level than other friends do,” Pearl says. “When you come back to your room, you want to see your roommate.”

“It’s a pick-me-up to walk in and see someone that wants to see you,” Gabby adds. “A day is not a day without having that debrief moment with your roommate.”

4. A crash course in life skills. As one senior put it, “Living what is essentially a college lifestyle has made me more responsible and reliable.”

5. Friends for life. There’s an undeniable bond that grows among people who live and work together.

It’s a connection that many of our alumni say never goes away.

Get Ready for College “Williston allowed me to purusue my many different passions in one place, and in college I continue to explore many avenues. I credit Williston for shaping me into a multifaceted student.”

SOLEIL, BOSTON CONSERVANCY AT BERKLEE

A four-year boarding student from Bermuda, Soleil personified dance at Williston. A talented performer and choreographer, she captained the dance team and shone in every performance. “Dance at Williston taught me the importance of discipline, grit, and being part of something bigger than yourself,” she said in her address as the senior class speaker at Commencement. In addition, Soleil was a proctor in our first-year girls dorm, a member of the Black Student Union, and a writer for the school newspaper. Now pursuing a BFA (with a speciality in dance, of course) at The Boston Conservancy at Berklee, Soleil also recently became a member of the highly competitive Boston Celtics dance group.

5-YEAR SAMPLE MATRICULATION LIST • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

JACK, YALE COLLEGE Academic passions—especially physics and math—were a huge focus of Jack’s experience at Williston. He was the Valedictorian of his class, a National Merit Scholar, president of the Math Team, and peer tutor. But, he also was a pitcher on the varsity baseball team, played the piano, and even created crosswords for the school newspaper. Now at Yale, Jack is double majoring in both physics and statistics and Data Science (not to mention still creating crosswords… now for the Yale Daily News!). “At Williston, I was really encouraged to diversify my interests and explore new extracurricular activities and passions,” he says. “That helped me in my application, and those are now passions I’m exploring at the college level, too.”

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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