1. Are military boarding schools as intimidating in real life as they are on TV and in the movies?
Movies and TV are great for entertainment, but not so great at providing accurate portrayals of real life. While it’s impossible to say that no military school is scary, the best ones make you feel at home and safe. Finding the right school for you is the most important part of the application process.
2. I’m scared if I attend a military boarding school I will lose my individuality. The uniforms, the dress codes…how can I express myself?
Many students considering attending a military boarding school often fear losing themselves in a sea of polyester uniforms. The fact is, although you have to wear what everyone else is wearing, it does not take away from your individuality. Instead, what makes you truly unique–your personality, your interests, your experiences–those things garner more attention from others, instead of people being distracted by what you look like on the outside.
And when it comes to expressing yourself, there are many opportunities to do so, from a “Poetry Slam” to the annual drama production, from art class to the International Club’s “Rant Night.”
3. I’m worried people will think I’m “bad” if I tell them I go to a military boarding school. How can I convince people I just want a better education?
Unfortunately, this is a pretty common concern. Many years ago military boarding schools were used to help reform misbehaving students and make them outstanding members of society. Today, that reputation still haunts a lot of military boarding schools but it has greatly improved over the last few decades. A lot of the bad reputation stems from people who simply do not know much about these types of schools. Many military boarding schools do not accept students with behavioral problems or low GPAs. Military boarding schools are much more interested in well-behaved, hard-working students who want to become leaders with integrity.
If someone asks, “Why were you sent to military school? What did you do?” just share your story and tell them why you chose to go to a military school.
4. I have no plans on going into the military after high school. Should I still go to a military boarding school?
Military boarding schools are not just for the service-bound. While it is true that you do learn military protocols such as how and when to salute, and you do learn to wear the uniform properly, the skills and discipline you learn is highly transferable to “real life.” Learning to be accountable for yourself is a major life skill you learn in schools that focus on military lifestyle. Self-discipline, a strong work ethic, and time management are all basic life skills you can learn at a military boarding school. And learning how to wear that military uniform correctly, shine your shoes, and tie your tie, all translate directly to wearing a business suit well.
The point is that there are a lot of misconceptions and myths associated with military boarding schools. Some are founded in history, while others are just straight out of Hollywood. Do your research, and above all, make sure you visit the schools you are considering and ask questions. Every military school is different; you need to make sure that you find the one that will help you grow into the leader you want to be.
This post was originally written by Jonathan Pederson ’15.