Name: Avi 

Graduation Year: 2022

Middle School: Black Pine Circle School

Hometown: Oakland

 

Why did you choose College Prep? had heard stories of engaging, interesting classes and unrivaled teachers, leading me to check it out (psst… these stories are completely true). I was also intrigued by the idea of a small school. Not only does it allow you to build a closer knit community, but it also gives you opportunities that you might not otherwise have. For example, I knew I’d be able to play Varsity Baseball, something I might not have been able to do at a larger school. 

 

What's the biggest difference between middle school and high school? The classes. Every student at College Prep is driven, which allows for unparalleled, rich class discussions. These classes are incredibly fun and engaging, but the work is much harder than middle school, which I think is a good thing.

 

What is your favorite place on campus? My favorite place on campus is probably the gym deck. I love spending my free periods there doing homework, playing ping pong with friends, or just basking in the warm sun. People tend to congregate there at the end of the day, so it’s perfect if you need to debrief an assignment with someone or make a plan to drive to a sporting event. It’s also right next to the gym, so you can step inside and shoot some hoops at your leisure. 

 

What are you involved in on Campus? My primary activity on campus is baseball, which I’ve played since I was a Freshman. Last year, I also got the opportunity to play on the Frosh/Soph basketball team. I’m not the best basketball player, but I was able to improve my skills and bond with my teammates, which was tons of fun. I also play bass in the Jazz Band and the Jazz Combo. Jazz Combo is a small group of kids from the band who play together at a more advanced level. In this more intimate setting, I’ve been able to vastly improve my improvisation skills, as well as my overall feel on the bass.  We play at school concerts, open houses, and other events that occur throughout the year. Each of these activities gives me a different group of people to bond with. I've become really close with people from my participation in sports and music, which is one of the reasons I continue to participate. I've also been an active member of Jewish Club, and this year I'll be one of the leaders. Additionally, I'm a PHIRE senior, meaning I co-facilitate a course and advise sophomores on equity and inclusion, mental health, wellness, decision-making and more. I've also been a member of Stagecraft and of course the Ambassadors program.

 

What has been your favorite class? This is an impossible question to answer! My mom asked me about my classes near the beginning of freshman year and I responded, "I really like Math, but I also like English. Actually, History is fun too. Wait but I also love Spanish and Physics!" I know it sounds cheesy but I think this really encapsulates one of the great strengths of Prep: every class will be engaging, even if you don’t consider yourself “good” at that subject. I know I don’t consider myself an English person, but English at College Prep has opened me up to a whole new way of analytical thinking that I absolutely love.

 

What has been the best thing about College Prep? The community is undoubtedly the best thing about Prep. The small size provides a unique opportunity to connect with people outside of your social circles and grade. I’ve met friends through each one of my activities, allowing me to meet all sorts of different people. The teachers and staff are part of this community as well; they’re all some of the most approachable, amiable people you’ll ever meet.