Fifty new students joined the Springside Chestnut Hill Academy Upper School this year, and the summer was the perfect time for them to make new friends. The school hosted orientation meetings, preseason, and an Outward Bound adventure for all incoming freshmen. The school believes it’s vital for new students to feel immediately welcome.
In addition to events specifically designed for new students, sports and activities are great for new students to connect with new and older students.

Head of School Dr. Dinkins said, “One of the best things a new student can do is to get involved with a fall sport or fall activity.”

Students who have been involved with sports and activities have all given extremely high praise for these events.

Sports are also a great way for all students to meet people, especially new ones.

New junior Michael Goff also reinforced Dr. Dinkins’s opinions regarding preseason: “The soccer team having preseason and the two weeks before school started is a good way to get to know people before the first day of school.”

Goff also stated that being a part of The Campus Lantern has been crucial to his success so far. “It has helped me connect with other students with similar interests.”

The freshmen and new student orientations are also great resources for new and high schoolers. These events help students meet teachers, learn about the campus, and meet their new classmates.

Orientation leader Priya Jonas ‘25 said, “All of the seniors on the senior leadership team did a Q and A panel for the new students to ask questions about high school.”

SCH is unique in the opportunity it offers to do an Outward Bound adventure. This monumental event allows all freshmen to meet their new advisories, and it especially helps new students build confidence and long-lasting friendships. Outward Bound serves as a vital place for all freshmen, especially those who are new to SCH.

A group of freshmen pose for a picture enjoying the sunset during Outward Bound.

Freshman Ella McShane said, “I definitely met new people and made a lot of memories. This helped me a lot because I am a new student.”

A big part of freshman growth during Outward Bound is the fact that a senior leader is placed in every group and becomes a mentor for the ninth graders on the trail.

Outward Bound orientation leader Josh Miller stated, “I think Outward Bound as a whole puts everyone together on the same level. Whether you are new or you know people since everyone is being placed in an unfamiliar spot.”

With the Outward Bound experience for all freshmen, and the opportunity to participate in preseason sports or activities for any new student, anyone coming into SCH Upper School can make a smooth transition.