Nick
Gill, Massachusetts
From his first visit to campus, Nick felt a sense of community and belonging at NMH.
What brought me to NMH:
Its sense of community and belonging. Ever since my tour in the fall of 2022, I have been compelled by the way people interact with each other daily. From the way the tour guide spoke to me to how the dining hall staff made friendly conversation with the students, it reinforced an image of NMH that embodied community.
My favorite NMH tradition:
Hogolympics: an intense competition where the whole school participates, with each person representing their respective dorms. It brings the community together.
My activities at NMH:
Varsity swimming, including serving as a team captain; varsity volleyball; Resident Leader; member of Model United Nations; PE swimming.
Something new I tried for the first time at NMH:
Living with a roommate. I have lived my whole life having my own room, not having to share my personal space with anyone, until I came to NMH. From my first day, I had to navigate a unique dynamic between my roommate that drew us closer but also highlighted our differences. As the year progressed, however, I learned to respect not only my space but his and create a comfortable space for both of us.
The most challenging part of my time at NMH:
The adjustment to academic rigor. At my previous school, I was earning straight A’s with minimal effort; however, when I arrived here, there was definitely an adjustment period where my grades took a toll, but as I grew accustomed to the rigor, I began to thrive.
NMH has developed me into a person who is deeply passionate about certain subjects and topics. It has allowed me to express my perspectives and emotions on things that I resonate with.”
My favorite class:
Islamic Middle East. This course reinforced my interest in the region and educated me on the history of the countries there.
My favorite activity:
Swimming and going to the gym. These places foster hard work and community, which allow them to feel like spending time with family.
My favorite food in Alumni Hall:
Definitely the salad bar. Throughout my time at NMH, I have become fond of the creativity of creating my own food. My go-to order would probably be romaine lettuce, edamame, carrots, quinoa, grilled chicken, cottage cheese, and cilantro.
My favorite spot on campus:
The dining hall. It is where the whole community comes together and where laughter, joy, or really any emotion can be felt at once.
Advice I would give myself if I could go back to my first day at NMH:
I would tell myself to branch out and talk to more new people. Coming to NMH for the first time allows you to discover new cultures and traditions from all around the world, something that you will most likely experience rarely later.
How NMH has changed me:
NMH has developed me into a person who is deeply passionate about certain subjects and topics. It has allowed me to express my perspectives and emotions on things that I resonate with.
What I will miss most about NMH:
My friends and teachers who have supported me throughout my journey here.
Plan for the fall:
I will attend the University of Richmond to study political science.