Enquire to study in the UK 
Teenagers need room to be teenagers. It’s a time of rapid growth, that vulnerable stage where you discover the world through a brand-new lens. Yes, these are turbulent years, but they are also filled with fun, freedom, and possibilities.
Choate Rosemary Hall understands this better than anyone.
For over 130 years, this a private, co-ed boarding and day school located in Wallingford, Connecticut has offered exceptionally transformative experiences, the kind that put teenagers on a path to discovery uniquely tailored to their talents and interests. Today, it counts over 18,000 and welcomes students from 52 countries to their nature-clad 450-acre campus to learn how to seize the opportunities of tomorrow.
Much of this rests on an approach that lets teenagers “be undefinable.” There are flexible curricula for students to tailor their learning to their passions and small-sized classes where faculty and staff can be invested in student success, whatever form it may take. Eight Signature Programmes allow students to specialise in focused, unique fields like robotics, performing arts, environmental immersion, and more. Guest lectures, workshops and mentorship opportunities give them a peek into a wide range of future careers.
At Choate, this exploration of interests and pursuits of passions doesn’t stop at 3 p.m. Opportunities here run 24/7.
That’s what makes Choate special — the entire campus is your classroom. It bustles, even when classes are out. There’s a certain buzz of young people doing things they love and are curious about. It’s not just exciting and energising, but important. Choate knows teenagers are so much more than just students. They are singers, scientists, and stewards of the environment. Many more are discovering further facets of who they are and who they can be. That’s why the school has plenty of extracurricular clubs and organisations to choose from, whether it’s the Film Club or the Muslim Student Association. And that’s also why the students are constantly popping in and out of St. John Hall, the student activities centre.
The school has an abundance of athletic facilities, like the Class of ‘76 Field and the 25-metre, 8-lane Larry Hart Pool. Source: Choate Rosemary Hall
“Activities at Choate are a cornerstone of the student experience, providing a unique opportunity for students to take the lead in shaping their own social and extracurricular life,” says Alexandra Long. “These activities are mostly student-driven, empowering students to develop leadership skills and gain valuable experience in event planning.”
The utmost priority is making sure that the students have an outlet to express themselves in any shape or form and with the help of peers and adults. Ms. Long is the Director of Student Activities and works on the daily to plan fulfilling events for students. She also works to ensure the St. John Hall physical space is well-maintained. It’s home to a game room, common spaces, the Tuck Shop Cafe, and more.
Some of the most popular events on-campus are the Holiday Ball, Self-care Saturdays, and cultural events like International Education Week. The last one is a huge hit. It’s run by students and gives them a chance to honour their cultural heritage, providing a sense of camaraderie that brings down barriers.
Students at Choate Rosemary Hall get ample opportunities to explore their creativity. Source: Choate Rosemary Hall
Alongside these social events are dorm activities planned by residential advisers. Popular mug nights serve as study-break snack time for the students, spontaneous study sessions held in the common areas of the dorm, and organised meet-ups with peer mentors.
“Beyond the practical benefits, activities also serve as a vibrant platform for students to connect with others who share similar interests,” says Long.
And because teenagers need room to act and play as teenagers, the weekend is free for them to use. With no Saturday classes and no Sunday commitments, the weekend is time on the clock for social engagements, rest, relaxation, and weekend activities. This balance between structured learning and free time ensures that the students can recharge, make friends for life, and discover even more new experiences.
“Life at Choate can be intense, so it is necessary to socialise and have fun in order to be productive and mentally healthy,” says student Sophie Park. “I always find time on the weekends to have fun with my friends like watching movies, going out to eat, and kicking a ball around on the field.”
Choate Rosemary Hall takes a thoughtful approach to student well-being, creating an environment where students thrive both academically and personally. The school’s carefully designed schedule fosters a balanced lifestyle, allowing students to engage in social activities, complete their homework, and explore their personal interests. Through initiatives that promote both academic success and personal development, Choate ensures that students are equipped to excel in all areas of their lives.
