How can students make the most of their time at St. John’s Prep. What extracurricular activities are available. How to balance academics and social life. Why should students consider honors and AP classes. How can attending sports games enhance the school experience.

Discovering Your Passion: Extracurricular Activities at St. John’s Prep

St. John’s Prep offers a diverse array of extracurricular activities, providing students with ample opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills. From sports teams to theater groups, academic clubs to community service organizations, there’s something for everyone at Prep.

The annual activity fair is a prime opportunity for students to discover the wide range of options available. Booths representing various clubs and organizations line the gym, offering information and sign-up sheets for interested students. This event allows freshmen and upperclassmen alike to explore new possibilities and find activities that align with their passions.

Benefits of Joining Extracurricular Activities

• Develop new skills and talents
• Make friends with shared interests
• Build a sense of community outside the classroom
• Enhance college applications
• Discover unexpected passions

Participating in extracurricular activities not only enriches the high school experience but also contributes to personal growth and future success. Many students find that their involvement in clubs and teams leads to lifelong friendships, valuable leadership opportunities, and even career inspiration.

Embracing Academic Excellence: Honors and AP Courses at St. John’s Prep

St. John’s Prep is renowned for its rigorous academic program, offering students the chance to challenge themselves through honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These classes provide an opportunity for motivated students to delve deeper into subjects they’re passionate about and potentially earn college credit while still in high school.

Why Consider Honors and AP Classes?

1. Enhanced critical thinking skills
2. Preparation for college-level coursework
3. Opportunity to earn college credit
4. Improved study habits and time management
5. Competitive edge in college admissions

While honors and AP courses can be demanding, they offer significant benefits for students willing to put in the extra effort. These classes often feature smaller class sizes, allowing for more individual attention from teachers and deeper discussions among peers.

Building School Spirit: The Importance of Attending Sports Games

Attending sports games at St. John’s Prep is about more than just watching athletic competitions; it’s an integral part of the school experience that fosters community, pride, and lasting memories. From the electric atmosphere of football games at Brother Joseph Stadium to the excitement of basketball matchups in the gym, supporting Prep’s sports teams is a tradition that unites the entire school community.

How Does Attending Sports Games Enhance the Prep Experience?

• Builds school spirit and pride
• Provides opportunities for social bonding
• Offers a break from academic stress
• Supports classmates and friends
• Creates lasting memories

The pre-game tailgating tradition exemplifies the sense of community that sports events can foster. Families, teachers, and students come together to share food, play games, and build excitement before kickoff. These gatherings serve as a reminder of the strong bonds that make St. John’s Prep more than just a school, but a true community.

Navigating Academic Success: Study Tips and Resources at St. John’s Prep

Achieving academic success at St. John’s Prep requires dedication, effective study habits, and the ability to utilize available resources. The school offers a variety of support systems to help students excel in their coursework and prepare for future academic challenges.

Essential Study Tips for Prep Students

1. Create a consistent study schedule
2. Utilize the library and quiet study spaces
3. Form study groups with classmates
4. Take advantage of teacher office hours
5. Use online resources and educational apps

One of the key advantages of studying at St. John’s Prep is the accessibility of teachers and academic support staff. Students are encouraged to seek help when needed, whether through one-on-one meetings with teachers, peer tutoring programs, or specialized study skills workshops.

Developing Leadership Skills: Opportunities at St. John’s Prep

St. John’s Prep is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, offering numerous opportunities for students to develop and hone their leadership skills. From student government to club leadership positions, Prep students have ample chances to take on responsibilities and make a positive impact on their school community.

Leadership Opportunities at Prep

• Student Council and Class Officers
• Club and Team Captains
• Peer Mentoring Programs
• Community Service Initiatives
• School Ambassador Programs

Engaging in leadership roles not only benefits the school community but also helps students develop valuable skills such as public speaking, organization, and teamwork. These experiences can be transformative, boosting confidence and preparing students for future leadership opportunities in college and beyond.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: Multicultural Initiatives at St. John’s Prep

St. John’s Prep takes pride in its diverse student body and strives to create an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected. The school offers various programs and initiatives designed to celebrate cultural differences, promote understanding, and foster a sense of belonging for all members of the Prep community.

Multicultural Programs at St. John’s Prep

1. Cultural awareness clubs and organizations
2. Diversity and inclusion workshops
3. International exchange programs
4. Multicultural celebration events
5. Community outreach initiatives

By participating in these programs, students gain a broader perspective on the world, develop empathy for others, and learn to appreciate the richness that diversity brings to their educational experience. These initiatives also prepare students to thrive in an increasingly globalized world and diverse workforce.

Preparing for the Future: College Counseling and Career Services

St. John’s Prep is dedicated to helping students prepare for their future beyond high school. The school’s comprehensive college counseling and career services program provides students with the guidance and resources they need to make informed decisions about their post-secondary education and career paths.

Key Components of Prep’s College and Career Services

• One-on-one college counseling sessions
• College fairs and information sessions
• SAT/ACT preparation courses
• Career exploration workshops
• Alumni networking events

The college counseling team at St. John’s Prep works closely with students throughout their high school years, helping them identify their strengths, explore potential majors and careers, and navigate the college application process. This personalized approach ensures that each student receives the support they need to achieve their post-graduation goals.

Balancing Academics and Personal Well-being: Wellness Programs at St. John’s Prep

Recognizing the importance of mental and physical health in academic success, St. John’s Prep offers a range of wellness programs designed to support students’ overall well-being. These initiatives aim to help students manage stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and develop coping skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Wellness Initiatives at Prep

1. Mindfulness and meditation classes
2. Physical education and fitness programs
3. Nutritional education and healthy eating options
4. Counseling services and support groups
5. Time management and stress reduction workshops

By prioritizing student wellness, St. John’s Prep creates an environment where students can thrive academically while also maintaining their physical and mental health. These programs teach valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom, preparing students for the challenges they may face in college and beyond.

St. John’s Prep’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education extends to every aspect of student life. From rigorous academics and diverse extracurricular activities to comprehensive support services and wellness initiatives, the school offers countless opportunities for students to grow, learn, and prepare for their futures. By taking advantage of these resources and fully embracing the Prep experience, students can make the most of their time at this esteemed institution and lay a strong foundation for future success.

Join Extracurricular Activities That Match Your Interests

As a new student at St. John’s Prep, you’ll quickly realize there are tons of activities and clubs to get involved in outside of classes. From sports teams to theater, academic clubs to community service groups, finding an extracurricular that excites you is one of the best ways to make Prep feel like home.

I still remember my first activity fair freshman year – booths lined the gym with info about every club imaginable. Drama, debate, robotics, cultural groups, political organizations – you name it, Prep probably has a club for it. The key is finding ones that align with your own interests and passions. Scan the list with an open mind, chat with the student leaders at the booths, and don’t be shy about giving something new a try!

Some of my best memories at Prep came from activities I never expected to join. I randomly signed up for an a cappella group freshman year and ended up discovering a new talent and making amazing friends. My roommate convinced me to try out for the lacrosse team with her even though I’d never played before. Through practices and games, I developed grit and became part of a sisterhood.

Don’t worry if you can’t narrow it down to just one or two clubs right away either. Especially freshman year, it’s great to experiment and see what sticks. Prep encourages students to explore activities that complement their academic interests too. A future engineer could join the robotics team or a budding journalist could write for the school paper.

Not only will extracurriculars give you a community outside of classes, but they also look great on college applications down the road. Admissions officers want to see well-rounded students who pursue their passions. So take advantage of all that Prep has to offer and find activities that get you excited to come to school each day.

Challenge Yourself Academically With Honors/AP Classes

With small class sizes and passionate teachers, the academics at St. John’s Prep are top-notch. If you’re looking to push yourself and make the most of these opportunities, consider taking honors or Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

Many freshmen start with at least one honors class in subjects they excelled at in middle school. These courses move at a faster pace and go more in-depth than standard classes. You’ll sharpen critical thinking skills and strengthen work ethic – great preparation if you plan to take APs later.

AP classes allow you to take college-level courses and potentially earn credit before graduating. Junior and senior year, I loaded up on APs in government, literature, physics, and other topics I was interested in majoring in someday. The material was challenging but extremely rewarding.

My AP teachers were always available outside of class for extra help too. Forming relationships with them really enriched my learning and allowed me to thrive. Don’t be afraid to utilize office hours, review sessions, and tutoring if you need it.

With hard work, AP exams can lead to college credit. Scoring well demonstrated my ability to handle university academics. Even without credit, though, the critical analysis and study skills I built in those courses prepared me incredibly well for college classes.

Honors and APs require dedication but also pay off enormously. Embrace opportunities at Prep to challenge yourself and uncover new academic passions. The work will reap dividends down the road.

Attend Sports Games and Support Your Classmates

Attending Prep sports games is about way more than just watching – it’s a chance to show Eagle pride and cheer on your friends and classmates. Trust me, you’ll want to be part of the sea of red filling the stands.

The atmosphere during football games at Brother Joseph Stadium is absolutely electric. Cheerleaders lead chants, the band plays upbeat songs, and students go wild when we score touchdowns. Even teachers get into it!

One of my favorite traditions was tailgating before football games started. Families, teachers and students would hang out grilling food, playing yard games and getting hyped up for kickoff. The community bonding during tailgates always reminded me what Prep spirit is all about.

Make sure to support other sports too like soccer, basketball, hockey, lacrosse and more. Seeing familiar faces from your classes compete on the field or court is really fun. And they’ll remember seeing you cheer them on!

Attending games, whether home or away, is also a great excuse to take a break from academics and hang out with friends. After particularly brutal weeks of tests and projects, nothing lifted my spirits like a Friday night football game.

Don’t underestimate the power of school spirit either. Rallying behind your classmates on the field can provide a huge sense of community and bring Prep students together. Get your face painted, make signs, and make some noise – I promise you’ll have a blast.

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Challenge Yourself Academically With Honors/AP Classes

St. John’s Prep is well known for its rigorous and enriching curriculum across subjects. For motivated students seeking an extra push, honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses are an excellent option to dive deeper into your academic interests.

Making the leap from standard classes to honors as an underclassman can feel intimidating at first. But having that foundational challenge freshman and sophomore year will pay dividends when it comes time for APs. In honors courses, you’ll find a faster pace that keeps you on your toes, more complex materials that strengthen critical thinking, and passionate teachers who encourage you to unlock your potential.

By junior year, I felt fully prepared to load up on APs in topics like literature, calculus, environmental science, and microeconomics. On top of gaining valuable skills in subjects I loved, I hoped to earn college credit through testing. This allowed me to experience the rigor of college-level academics while still having the support system of teachers and resources at Prep.

My AP literature teacher in particular stands out for the way she empowered me as a budding English nerd. We read rich texts from Hansberry to Hemingway, analyzing rhetorical devices and contextual symbolism. I learned how to craft persuasive, nuanced essays – so different from the formulaic five-paragraph style I’d leaned on before. Her passion for the written word was contagious and drove me to become a more insightful reader, thinker, and writer.

One tip if you pursue APs: Don’t be shy about asking for help when you need it! My teachers always made themselves available outside of class, especially as exams approached. I regularly attended tutoring sessions to strengthen problem areas and collaborating with classmates to dissect challenging concepts. Having that support system made all the difference in building confidence.

With hard work and persistence, I achieved scores to earn credit for several AP exams. But even more valuably, I emerged from those courses with sharper study skills, stronger work ethic, and a sense of pride in rising to challenges. I felt fully prepared to dive into university academics.

Honors and AP courses demand dedication but help you uncover new depths of intellectual curiosity and academic tenacity. Allow yourself to be challenged at St. John’s Prep – and discover just how high you can reach within a supportive community.

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Attend Sports Games and Support Your Classmates

Attending St. John’s Prep sporting events is about way more than just watching the action on the field or court – it’s a vibrant display of community spirit and one of the best ways to support your fellow Eagles.

The energy during Friday night football games at Brother Joseph Stadium is simply electric. Students paint themselves red, make handmade signs, and go wild cheering on our team. Chants led by the cheer squad echo as the band keeps spirits high with pump-up songs. Even teachers join in on the festivities!

One of my favorite game day rituals was tailgating beforehand in the parking lot. Families, students and staff would fire up grills, play yard games like cornhole, and bond over food and football hype. Tailgates were the perfect pregame warm-up to build camaraderie.

Make sure to show spirit at away games too and encourage Prep teams taking the field on the road. See familiar classmates shine under the lights and remind them their fellow Eagles have their backs, win or lose.

Beyond football, you’ll find plenty of chances to rally behind Prep. Cross country races in the crisp fall air, nail-biting basketball games in the winter, spring tennis matches – our student athletes invest tremendous time and effort into their sports. Let’s give them the support they deserve!

Attending games is also a welcome escape from the grind of tests and homework. After a stressful week, nothing clears my head like cheering alongside classmates at a spirited rivalry matchup.

Don’t underestimate the power of school spirit either. Uniting around those representing Prep on the field strengthens bonds throughout the student body. The shared exhilaration of a buzzer-beater or game-winning goal is an irreplaceable feeling.

So paint your face, make some noise, and get rowdy! Trust me, joining your peers in the stands to support Prep sports is an experience you won’t want to miss. Let that Eagle pride soar!

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Participate in Community Service Activities

Giving back through community service is a core part of the St. John’s Prep experience. Volunteering your time and talents for others will enrich your perspective and strengthen our local community.

Prep proudly upholds the Jesuit value of being “men and women for others.” There are countless ways to get involved, from working at food banks to volunteering at youth programs to environmental cleanups and more. Scan the service board and club offerings to find causes that speak to you.

Some of my most impactful high school memories came from service activities. During spring break one year, a group of us helped rebuild homes damaged by storms down south. We also regularly visited a local assisted living facility, getting to know the residents while brightening their days with companionship. Simple acts of kindness can make such a difference.

Prep also encourages students to develop and lead their own service initiatives. A friend of mine organized a wildlife conservation campaign after developing a passion for the local environment. He worked with biology teachers to create educational materials and led teams cleaning up parks – empowering others to protect our natural world.

Look for service opportunities that align with academics too. As an aspiring health professional, I volunteered to teach fitness classes at an elementary school. Combining my studies with service allowed me to gain valuable hands-on experience while making an impact.

Colleges pay close attention to community involvement as well, so service hours can strengthen your applications. But more importantly, volunteering builds empathy, leadership skills, and connection – qualities that will stay with you for life.

At Prep, service isn’t about checking boxes – it’s about forming meaningful relationships and uplifting others. There’s no limit to the ways you can contribute time, talent or passion to support our community. Let the Jesuit call to be “men and women for others” guide you.

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Explore Different Elective Classes Outside Your Comfort Zone

One of the best parts of St. John’s Prep is the immense variety of elective courses offered in everything from arts to technology to life skills. Be adventurous and use electives to uncover new passions outside your comfort zone!

Of course the core academics are crucial, but electives let you explore specialized interests you’re excited to learn more about. Scan the course catalog with an open mind – you never know what might spark your curiosity.

Some of my all-time favorite classes ended up being ones I randomly selected just to try something different. On a whim, I took a forensic science elective and discovered a love for solving mysteries through evidence and deduction. Now I’m majoring in criminal justice!

Don’t be afraid to branch out from areas you’ve traditionally succeeded in either. As a math and science guy, I surprised myself by how much I enjoyed an elective film studies class analyzing cinematic art and symbolism. It brought out a creative side I never knew I had.

Prep’s teachers are passionate about their elective subjects and excel at making them engaging. My jewelry design instructor brought in unique materials each week for us to work with – it was cool transforming metals and gems into wearable pieces of art.

Electives also provide a productive break from your core workload. An improv comedy class was the highlight of my week when I needed laughter and connection. My coding elective honed practical tech skills I’ll use regardless of major.

College applications look favorably on pursuing diverse interests too. Admissions officers want to see curious, multifaceted applicants.

Make the most of the flexibility electives provide at Prep. Let your curiosity guide you to uncovered talents. The joy of learning something totally new is an awesome feeling – and might just change the direction of your path!

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Connect With Teachers and Form Meaningful Relationships

One of the standout parts of a St. John’s Prep education is the caring, invested teachers who go the extra mile to support students. Getting to know your teachers will enrich your academic experience and lead to mentorships that last beyond graduation.

With Prep’s intimate class sizes, teachers can provide personalized attention that makes you feel seen. They take time to learn about your skills, interests, challenges and goals. Forming real connections allows them to motivate and encourage you in meaningful ways.

My English teacher senior year played a pivotal role in my development as a writer. She recognized my creative instincts and met with me weekly to workshop my stories, poems and essays. Her faith in me as an emerging author fueled my self-belief. I still have a folder of all the encouraging notes she wrote me over the year!

Get in the habit of chatting with teachers before and after class too. Ask about their lives, interests and paths that led them to Prep. Discover mutual passions like sports, the arts, activism or travels. Those conversations organically blossom into caring mentorships.

Don’t be shy about reaching out for academic help either. Teachers at Prep universally want you to thrive and make themselves available to provide extra support. I regularly stayed after physics class to review challenging concepts one-on-one with my teacher.

Make sure to connect with teachers outside your core subjects too. I grabbed coffee once a month with my photography elective instructor to critique my latest projects. He taught me to see the world through an artistic lens.

The teacher relationships you build at Prep don’t end at graduation either. They become lifelong mentors you can turn to for career advice, recommendations and more. Years later, I still meet with my sophomore English teacher when I need encouragement chasing my writing dreams.

Invest time cultivating bonds with teachers at St. John’s Prep. Their wisdom, guidance and reassurance will enrich your high school experience immeasurably – and inspire you long after you leave Eagle Nation.

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Make Friends Outside Your Normal Social Circle

One amazing aspect of St. John’s Prep is the diversity of the student body. While it’s natural to stick with familiar friends, use this as a chance to branch out and connect with people outside your normal social circle.

I remember feeling nervous on the first day of freshman year knowing practically no one. But an outgoing classmate named James who sat next to me in history welcomed me right away. We seemed like total opposites – me the shy, bookish type and him a jokester lacrosse player. But we hit it off and ended up becoming close friends.

Push yourself to make conversation with classmates you might not normally talk to. You could discover shared interests that bond you instantly. Try out new lunch tables or sit with random people at assemblies. Some of my favorite high school memories started with simply asking, “Is this seat taken?”

Group projects and lab partners are another great chance to get to know peers. I worked on a physics assignment junior year with someone way outside my friend group. At first we just talked logistics, but by the end we realized we were both obsessed with Marvel movies and binged them together after school.

Don’t be afraid to make the first move and introduce yourself to someone new. Odds are they’ll really appreciate you taking that step. Just saying hi to the shy kid who always sat alone at my lunch table led to a senior year friendship I treasure.

Extracurriculars like sports teams, clubs and musicals also unite students who might never cross paths otherwise. The diverse perspectives and life experiences at Prep are an invaluable resource.

Stepping outside your comfort zone socially isn’t easy but will expand your horizons exponentially. You might just meet a lifelong friend in an unexpected place. Let the inclusive community at St. John’s Prep embrace and inspire you.

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Attend School Dances and Events

At St. John’s Prep, major school dances and events throughout the year are can’t-miss traditions. From homecomings to proms to seasonal celebrations, joining your classmates for these memorable occasions bonds you together.

As a freshman, I was nervous about the Winter Ball dance but my friends convinced me to go. Getting dressed up, taking photos together beforehand, and dancing the night away ended up being a total blast. Suddenly I felt connected to the entire Prep community.

Pep rallies are high-energy events that bring students of all grades together in Eagle pride. Cheerleaders get the crowd hyped while fall teams give sneak peeks of their upcoming seasons. You’ll leave feeling ready to take on the world!

No Prep experience is complete without attending a magical prom at least once. Slow dancing under twinkling lights with your date after enjoying a delicious dinner with friends is an iconic rite of passage. My senior prom is still one of my most precious memories.

Prep also knows how to celebrate the holidays in style. The annual Halloween party is legendary – costumes, decorations, treats and music. We hold festive assemblies before Thanksgiving and winter break too. There’s so much joy being part of traditions bigger than yourself.

Getting involved with student government groups planning events is rewarding too. My friends and I helped organize a casino-themed homecoming that took months of preparation but was a huge hit. Seeing your hard work pay off is an awesome feeling.

Being part of the St. John’s Prep community means sharing experiences with those around you. School events build friendships and memories that will stay with you long after graduation. Come make the most of these special traditions!

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Consider Running for Student Government

Getting involved in student government is a fantastic way to gain leadership skills while making a meaningful impact at St. John’s Prep. If you have a passion for creating change, don’t be afraid to take the leap and run for office!

When my friend Claire first suggested I run for class president sophomore year, I shrugged it off. Me, a leader? No way! But after encouragement from peers and teachers, I decided to go for it. Creating my campaign platform focused on mental health initiatives empowered me.

Win or lose, simply running teaches you so much. Crafting speeches forces you to articulate your vision. Talking to voters connects you with fellow students. Managing a campaign team builds critical organization skills. I’m endlessly grateful I got out of my comfort zone.

If giving speeches makes you want to hide under the table, explore positions like class representative or committee leader. You can create change on a smaller scale while building up to bigger roles. Leadership takes many forms.

Student government also collaborates closely with school administration to drive real initiatives. As a junior class officer, I worked with faculty to establish a peer tutoring program. Seeing it thrive and help fellow students was incredibly rewarding.

Or maybe you have fresh ideas about policies, activities or curriculum. Channel that spark into an office bid to turn visions into reality. Your perspective matters – don’t underestimate the power of your voice.

At Prep, the opportunity to lead is always open. So believe in yourself and embrace the chance to challenge growth. Run for student government not for glory but for meaning. You’ll gain lessons that last far beyond the campaign trail.

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Join Intramural or JV Sports Teams

Playing a sport, whether varsity or just for fun, is a fantastic way to stay active, build teamwork skills, and represent St. John’s Prep. Consider trying out for an intramural or JV squad – no experience needed!

I joined the JV tennis team sophomore year despite never having picked up a racket before. The learning curve was steep! But my amazing teammates and coaches encouraged me all season long. By the end, I had discovered a new favorite sport.

Intramural leagues involve games against other classes and dorm halls. It’s competitive but with a recreational spirit – a great low-pressure athletic option. A couple friends and I made an intramural basketball team freshman year just to try something new together.

Playing a sport also teaches the value of discipline, communication, and perseverance. Pushing through tough practices got me out of my own head and built mental resilience. I learned so much from my teammates’ self-motivation too.

And representing the school, even at a junior varsity or intramural level, bonds you to Prep’s spirited community. We live and breathe athletics here! Cheering each other on from the bleachers feels special.

Not sure which sport to pick? Attend some games and see what clicks. Chat with current players about the time commitment and skills needed. The coaches at Prep will help you find the right fit.

Don’t worry if you’ve never played before either. Many teams hold preseason clinics to teach fundamentals and get you comfortable with the basics. You’ll also improve leaps and bounds once practices start.

Prep offers countless ways to get involved in athletics at your own pace. Take a leap this year – you just might discover untapped talents and a new favorite hobby. Let sports be part of your St. John’s Prep journey!

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Audition for a Play or Musical at School

The performing arts program at St. John’s Prep puts on incredible productions each year. If acting, singing or dancing are your passions, don’t be afraid to step into the spotlight and audition!

I still remember watching the spring musical as a wide-eyed freshman, blown away by the triple-threat seniors shining on stage. Could I ever have the courage to perform like that? The next fall, I decided to find out.

Despite butterflies in my stomach, just reading lines at the audition felt like a rush. The energy backstage during rehearsals was contagious. My castmates pushed me to tap into confidence I didn’t know I had.

You’ll make amazing memories at auditions and late-night rehearsals too. My cast bonded so much prepping for our show together. The cheering crowds on opening night felt like the icing on the cake.

Not sure you’re Broadway material? Crew members are vital too. My friend handled lighting design for our play and discovered a true passion. There are so many ways to get involved backstage if acting isn’t your thing.

The theater community at Prep is also endlessly welcoming. Veterans mentor newbies. Casts become families. There’s no competition – everyone just wants to put on the best show possible.

Stepping outside your comfort zone is scary but the rush is unlike anything else. And the skills you gain – public speaking, confidence, teamwork – last a lifetime. You might just catch the theater bug!

So take a chance on yourself this year. The spotlight awaits at St. John’s Prep! Don’t miss your ovation.

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Join Clubs That Align With Your Passions

With dozens of extracurricular clubs, St. John’s Prep makes it easy to explore your interests. Scan the club fair offerings with an open mind, and don’t be afraid to join ones that speak to your true passions.

My STEM passions led me to the robotics club. Coding and engineering drones with like-minded peers fed my inner tech geek. Discussing complex concepts and collaborating on cutting-edge projects made me excited to come to meetings.

For students interested in public speaking, debate club sharpens critical thinking skills through competitive arguments. Those with global perspectives can join Model UN to tackle pressing world issues.

Still unsure what sparks you? Try a wide variety too – the possibilities are endless. Cooking club, roller hockey, breakdancing, LGBTQ alliance, art guild – don’t limit yourself to just one or two interests!

Joining clubs also allows you to make friends beyond just classmates. You’ll bond while sharing niche interests or working toward common goals. Some of my closest high school friendships started through robotics.

Leading a club lets you turn a passion into impact too. A wildlife fanatic friend of mine founded a conservation club that led campus cleanups and planted gardens. Making her vision reality was so fulfilling.

Colleges look for commitment to extracurriculars as well. Admissions officers want to see you pursue activities meaningful to you over four years, not just pad a resume.

Prep’s club scene has opportunities for every kind of interest. Find your people this year – the ones who geek out about the same obscure topics as you. Follow your curiosity and turn hobbies into lifelong affinities.

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Take Part in Overnight Retreats and Trips

Some of the most bonding experiences at St. John’s Prep happen outside the classroom. Make lifelong memories this year by taking part in overnight retreats, school trips and other immersive activities.

The weekend camping trip our environmental club took to Yosemite ended up being a highlight of senior year. Shooting stars from our sleeping bags, roasting s’mores after grueling hikes, sharing hopes under the redwoods – those moments etched into my heart.

Faith-based retreats also bring students closer through reflection and connection. A two-night Ignatian retreat brought my beliefs into focus through communal prayer practices in nature.

Or for an academic twist, join a trip related to your interests. My journalism class spent a weekend in New York City touring major media outlets and gaining real-world exposure.

Travel opens your eyes to new perspectives. An exchange program took me to Argentina for a month, living with a host family and attending high school there. My worldview grew exponentially.

Being away from the day-to-day grind of school fosters deeper bonding too. Late-night conversations on our Washington DC government trip revealed untold stories and forged new friendships.

Make time for these experiences outside the Prep bubble that broaden your horizons. They don’t need to be distant exotic trips either. Local weekend team retreats or day excursions also connect you with peers, teachers and the place you call home in profound ways.

This year, resolve to make memories that last lifetimes. Let travel be part of your St. John’s Prep story.

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Create Study Groups With Peers

At a rigorous academic school like St. John’s Prep, leaning on your classmates is key to thriving. Form study groups this year to tackle challenging material together and learn collaboratively.

My best study strategy was always getting together with a few friends for review sessions. We’d quiz each other on concepts from class, brainstorm essay topics, and share tricks for memorizing terms.

Studying with others keeps you accountable too. It’s harder to procrastinate when you know your study buddies are expecting you to show up prepared. I learned so much just from watching them diligently annotate textbooks and synthesize ideas.

Group members who excel at different subjects can also teach each other. My calculus whiz friend clarified formulas I just couldn’t grasp on my own, while I helped others analyze literature texts.

For big projects, divide up research and tasks to cover ground efficiently. Then come together to share findings and put the pieces together into a cohesive final product. A fresh set of eyes often improves your work tremendously.

Study groups are also great for providing motivation and reassurance. Preparing for intimidating AP exams is much less daunting when you’re surrounded by classmates who believe in you.

Form groups organically with like-minded friends who share your goals. Or reach out to peers you admire academically – they’ll probably be flattered! Set ground rules together to stay productive and positive.

At Prep, learning from and lifting up fellow students creates excellence. Lean on each other this year – you’ll all rise higher together.

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Make The Most of Special Annual Traditions Like Carnival Day

Alongside rigorous academics, St. John’s Prep celebrates beloved traditions that unite students and create lifelong memories. Special events like Carnival Day are quintessential Prep experiences – make sure to soak up the fun!

Carnival Day encapsulates the spirit and camaraderie of Prep. Each May, classes compete in field day events on the quad. Bouncy houses, game booths and food trucks turn campus into a festival. Students showcase talents in Battle of the Bands as we celebrate the end of the year together.

Pep rallies energize the school with Eagle pride too. Cheerleaders pump up crowds as we honor sports teams and preview upcoming games. You’ll walk away beaming with school spirit!

Participating in events like the Talent Show or Mr. Prep Pageant lets you connect through fun with classmates. Pro tip: get there early to snag front row seats!

Themed dances are rites of passage – who doesn’t love getting dressed up with friends? I still smile looking through photos from junior Homecoming, ’80s prom and more. The music, laughs and carefree joy filled my heart to the brim.

I’ll also never forget beloved senior traditions like the Harvard Yale Regatta, 100 Days Dinner, Baccalaureate Mass and finally, graduation day. Closing this chapter together with my Prep family was incredibly poignant.

At the core, these traditions generate a spirit of togetherness. For one fleeting day, let loose and build memories to last lifetimes. Take an active part in the moments that make Prep special.

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