Student Profiles

Peter Savarese knows that many students focus on a single talent and specialize early in their high school careers, but he still finds great joy in, and excels at, a wide range of interests. The winner of the Craig B. Stonestreet ’49 Prize for outstanding contribution to BB&N in the areas of academics, athletics and the arts, Peter is an “A” student, a star fullback, linebacker, and captain of the football team, and a bass in the a cappella group, The Knightingales.

Most recently, Peter is a co-winner of the prestigious “Profile Award.” This honor is given by the faculty to the author of the best Profile, a class-wide writing project for juniors during which they write an 11-page profile about a person whom they research, interview, and observe in their place of work. Peter profiled a gastrointestinologist at Boston’s Mass General Hospital.

The aspect of BB&N Peter enjoys most, however, is not any particular arena, but the opportunity to pursue all of his interests. “All students here are achievers,” he says, as if to deflect the extraordinary recognition he has received for his accomplishments. “We unite around the fact that everyone works incredibly hard in whatever they are doing. Students from all grades hang out together. People come out to support each other. People go to the games, and plays, and concerts.”

Peter knows that the hard work he has applied to his writing, or singing, or scoring a touchdown has been nurtured by the unflagging support of teachers and coaches. “Teachers really want you to do well,” he says. “They are always willing to meet with you and put in the extra time to help with any struggles. It’s easy to form connections with faculty here. They attend games and concerts, too.”

Which of his accomplishments provides Peter with the greatest sense of pride? For him, the fulfillment comes not from the public accolade, but an inner acknowledgement that he has worked hard to achieve something. “I get more satisfaction from accomplishing things myself, rather than getting the public recognition. League championships, awards, and congratulations are great, but kids and faculty here are very supportive and offer recognition in small and private ways, too.” Peter’s greatest source of pride is his progress in wrestling, a sport he began as a novice his junior year.

“I’ve loved my time here and all the opportunities at BB&N,” he says. “You can make your own experience. It’s worth all the effort.”