Founded in 1890, Choate Rosemary Hall has built a lasting tradition of preparing students to thrive in an ever-changing world. Today, the co-educational boarding and day school for students grades 9-postgraduate in the scenic New England town of Wallingford, Connecticut offers over 300 courses, hosts dozens of performances, supports 100+ student clubs and organisations, as well as 80 interscholastic teams. And that’s just a fraction of what the full Choate experience is all about.
The school has two key priorities: a rigorous academic curriculum, and an emphasis on the formation of character in a residential setting that allows for teachers and students to live with, and learn from, each other in important ways. Together on Choate’s hillside campus, academics and character-building create a community where students thrive.
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Nestled in Wallingford, Connecticut, Choate Rosemary Hall stands out for its innovative approach to education. Source: Choate Rosemary Hall
What is daily life like?
Campus life at Choate is full and varied, with a rhythm that keeps students engaged and connected. The school day moves from focused classes to lively afternoons, but learning doesn’t stop at 3 p.m. After class, some head to rehearsals, sports practice, or club meetings, while others catch up with friends or dive into independent projects. No two students’ days look the same, and that variety is part of what makes an education here uniquely Choate.
With about 75% of students living on campus, there’s always something happening, whether dorm gatherings, late-afternoon activities, or collaborative study sessions.
What type of food is served?
Food at Choate feeds the body as well as the mind and soul. The dining hall serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a variety of options that celebrate many cultures. There are vegetarian and vegan choices, allergen-free stations, a salad bar, a pizza oven, and daily rotating dishes from around the world.
Across campus, there’s a café for smoothies and coffee and a snack bar that serves sandwiches, perfect for a change of pace. Day to day, most students enjoy their last meal of the day at the dining hall. At this central gathering place, they gather in community and share meals with peers and faculty alike.
Choate Rosemary Hall supports student well-being through wellness days, special programmes, weekend trips, and engaging activities. Source: Choate Rosemary Hall
What support systems help students navigate life at boarding school?
Choate provides a range of support systems to help students thrive. The school’s thoughtful structure ensures that students never feel alone and always have someone to turn to for guidance, encouragement, or celebration.
Adults across campus play a key role in this support. Teachers, dorm advisers, coaches, and deans help students balance academics, extracurricular activities, and daily life. House mentors, both adults and peers in boarding residences, help younger students become more independent in a safe and welcoming environment.
“When I first came to Choate, I was surprised by how much the faculty wanted me to succeed,” says Elisabeth ‘25. “They truly want you to do your best and unlock your potential. They are available for extra help during all hours and are willing to meet with you in and outside of class.”
Trained student leaders, including prefects and mentors, provide another layer of support. The school also prioritises health and safety, with a 24/7 campus safety team and health centre ensuring a secure environment for all students.
Do students just study all the time?
Choate is academically rigorous but structures the day and year so students have the resources they need to succeed both in and out of class. The school creates a home away from home with a welcoming global community, striking a balance between academics and extracurricular activities, as well as passion projects, while leaving room for the fun of being a teenager.
Students have built-in time throughout the day, week, and year to focus on studies, self-care, and personal interests. “My adviser has helped me to balance academic and extracurricular excellence with all the fun Choate has to offer,” Sofia ‘25 says. “At the end of the day, you determine what you take on, and the Choate community will support you.”
How do students stay connected to family while abroad?
Choate makes it easy for students to stay connected with family while abroad. Students have downtime for phone calls, and parents can stay in touch through email and the parent portal, which offers resources, news, and updates. A dedicated Manager of Parent Relations, is also available to answer questions and keep families informed from a distance.
Plus, families can visit campus for events such as Family Weekend two months into the school year and a similar day for grandparents in the spring term. Many parents say that these visits make time together even more meaningful, allowing them to focus on the big moments instead of daily details, such as homework, laundry, or transportation. Choate students love it just as much, if not more.
“It may seem overwhelming to think of moving away from home, but the great network of people at Choate and the amazing experiences you have here make it worth it,” says McCormick ‘25.
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