On & Off Campus Blog

My favorite part of the inn is the conservatory, because it is so bright. The sun streaks through the glass walls and skylight, lighting up the room and making the glass tables sparkle. Through the glass walls, you can see into the back deck, where an old maple tree canopies the sitting area. Flower pots brim with brilliant hues, and ripe tomatoes hang from their vines.

I first attended Nobles Day Camp in a group for rising second graders, and eleven years later, I've returned to that same group. Granted, I've worked as a camp counselor for the past two summers, responsible for the kids' welfare through a range of sports and art activities. Occasionally, I see a camper comment on another's appearance, differing by ethnicity, cultural customs, or other characteristics. Although I intervene to prevent insult, these remarks arise out of pure curiosity, far detached from the intolerance surrounding America's societal divisions.

All of those who have been through ninth grade at BB&N have their own memories of Bivouac. Regardless of whether it was your cup of tea, it is certainly a highlight of freshman year. One of the many aspects that makes the camping trip so unforgettable is the surprises it holds for each student. Looking back on Bivouac now, it is clear Bivouac was a prelude to the numerous surprises that ninth grade would bring.

Last spring, I signed up for the French exchange trip for an opportunity to travel to the most beautiful city in the world, Paris. For ten days, I lived with my French correspondent, her mother, father, and older brother in a small apartment in the city. Everything was strange, from the conversations in French to the foods we ate during dinner to sharing a living space with people I had just met. This trip, which initially started as a chance to admire the Eiffel Tower, quickly became much more. I learned so much about my ability to adapt in different situations when pushed out of my comfort zone.

Even though I never met him, singing at BB&N grad Kendric Price's memorial service completely redefined the way I look at the world. When we climbed down from the stage and started singing Stevie Wonder's "Love's in Need of Love Today" up and down the aisles of the audience, the final dam collapsed. Some burst out in tears, others blinked back glassy eyes, but everyone clapped along with the rhythm and took up the chorus.