<p>I know this is out of date, but it may strike a chord with current students and parents… I worked super-hard at PEA because it was so demanding. Years ago, they gave impossible amounts of work- very few could really do it all. They did not have finals or cumulative assessments because they could never have covered all that material at once. One had to expect to be in class every day ready and prepared to write or do a pop quiz, let alone participate heavily in class discussions around the Harkness table. We had papers and tests at least once a week, and they were carefully graded with lots of comments- the teachers really spent time on our work, making extensive corrections to show us what was not right and how to improve, so they worked hard, too. It was the opposite of coddling. There was almost a heady feeling, as if it was an honor that the teachers held us in such high esteem to expect that from us. I had a few very unreasonable teachers, too- learning experience about unfairness, etc.
The kids there were definitely the smartest group of people I have ever been with. Compared to the NYC private I attended before PEA and the Ivy I attended afterwards, PEA was surely the hardest, most challenging. It did not feel competitive, but just that the standards were high and justifiably high because everyone was so bright and it was a stimulating learning environment. Grading was merciless- a B- was truly hard to get and called Honors. Many former superstars at their previous schools were ground into C averages. Yet a few, geniuses and hard-workers both, did attain Highest Honors and High Honors. The culture really really respected intelligence, good grades, and eccentricity, wit, and quirkiness. (LOL no one talked about SAT’s or getting into college much!) The classes were amazing- great discussions, great writing, great books, much covered. </p>
<p>So I was attracted by a greater challenge and hopefully a better education than at my prior school. I was already a hard worker and quite academic, and found it refreshing to be at a place where that was admired and respected by my peers. </p>
<p>The teachers all loved to teach. The content of my Humanities courses at PEA was incredible, too. I learned so much, and how to write persuasively (I obviously have forgotten much of that due to lack of use LOL), and it was an amazing place. </p>
<p>Was I happy all the time? Of course not? Did it change me? For sure. Was I over-worked? Yes, but I learned how to work smarter, not just harder. Did I get homesick? No. Did I get much support from faculty and advisors. Not really. I learned humility, too- plenty of people were sooo much smarter and more accomplished, but it was great to be in a pool of such bright minds. Also, it was already a bastion in the forefront of diversity supported by a large endowment and loyal alumni base. Not preppy at all. Not entitled or privileged, or materialistic- quite spartan, actually. I met all kinds of interesting kids from all backgrounds and from all over the world. I do remember a decent amount of feeling as if we were being sent off to lead with considered thought and humility and confidence. I guess that could be labelled as elitist. </p>
<p>I do not know whether PEA has changed all that much. Sounds as if it has not lightened up too much on the academics… but maybe the grading has become easier.
Back in my day, PA was considered a party school compared to PEA LOL.
I assume PEA goes through this cycle of responding to concerns and complaints about academic pressure on a regular basis. I have no idea how they have responded or adjusted in the past. But when I was there it was undoubtedly a uniquely high quality institution delivering an extraordinary education.</p>