As first-time boarding students, Second and Third Formers are introduced to many new people, new customs, and a new lifestyle. Luckily, Groton makes this transition flow smoothly for everybody and creates unforgettable memories. 

Dorm life has exceeded the standards of new boarding students, welcoming them in with open arms and excitement. Kids scream across the ends of the dorm, sneaking around for pranks, studying together, and simply spending time with one another. Check-in is often the favorite part of the day for some because it gives the kids time to relax with their dormmates after an exhausting day and long study hall. 

Lower Schoolers socialize with their prefects, who are always there for students, ready to answer questions, give guiding tips on how to manage work and offer a listening ear. They often check up on the kids, asking them about their day, and stay in the dorm common rooms, keen to answer any questions. 

Though homesickness is transient when something engaging is always happening, it’s comforting to have people “always in my corner,” as Ashton Vertus ’28 says. Many Lower Schoolers think of their dorm as their “second home.”

Groton has been a new experience for many as they learn how to balance work and social life. Adjusting to the transition from their past school or middle school can be challenging sometimes. The extra work and the rapid pace, as well as the experience of boarding in a new place, 

“My days are so structured that I spend most of my time fitting in classes and sports and activities and I don’t have a lot of time to sit around,” says Ceres Moraitis ’28.

Everyone takes it in stride, keeping their head up as they face many challenges adapting to the new experiences. Whether it’s workload, company, or afternoon activities, it all ends up flowing smoothly as we slowly change. 

Each afternoon activity has its own specialty: a chance to explore the other aspects of yourself. Many students enjoy sports. 

“It’s difficult, but it’s a nice way for me to bond with people, not only from my form, but from other forms as well,” says Ashton about his sport, cross country. “After a long day or school it’s a nice change of pace being able to go outside and do some running and getting to see Groton’s beautiful campus.” 

After the Groton Club Fair a few weeks ago, clubs have begun to draw in members and get into a rhythm. The timings are reasonable, allowing flexibility for students. 

“Since these clubs meet only once a month approximately,” says Gabriela Coates ’28, “ it is manageable for me to be active in all of them.” 

After a while, students start to feel a need to leave the Circle for a little bit. The Third Formers and Second Formers travel all around our surrounding community, enjoying the opportunities for breaks and free time to enjoy shopping and just hanging out.

Always having someone at your back has made this new experience easier for Lower Schoolers. Advisors, dorm heads, academic skills, seniors, and having all of these people to support ease the Lower Schoolers into the experience. There is always a guiding hand ready to help them when they need it. Lower Schoolers have learned how to adapt and have fun because that’s what you do when you’re a Zebra.