<p>This is probably going to be my first choice school, and after reading the Q and A, I'm bummed. </p>
<p>
[quote]
Q.
How many new students do you enroll each year?</p>
<p>A.
In the ninth grade class, we enroll roughly fifty students. Additionally, we enroll anywhere from ten to twelve new sophomores and one or two new juniors. Because our attrition rate is so low (around 2%), we rarely have openings in the junior year. We deliberately leave the ninth grade class a bit smaller so that we are able to accept a number of tenth graders.
[/quote]
I'll be applying for junior year and now I realize I'm competing with hundreds of students for ONE or TWO new openings. Are all boarding schools like these? My Exeter interviewer told me, last year, that ninth and eleventh grade are focal points for entry.</p>
<p>It’s true that it’s extra tough to be admitted as a Junior to Thacher. If the School is your first choice, be sure they know that! Aside from being judged capable of doing the academic work, admitted Juniors tend to be extra well rounded outside the classroom, socially adept and self-confident, with a great attitude toward helping others and contributing to the School community. Essentially, they need to have the skills to integrate quickly and successfully.</p>
<p>One of my son’s best friends from Kentucky was an admitted Junior. I wouldn’t say that he was a superstar in any one area, rather he was very strong in every area and a natural born leader. They asked him to be a Prefect his senior year.</p>
<p>I guess I am self confident and a leader. The thing that draws me about Thacher is the community. Not only does it have the amazing stats of NE schools (maybe just under, but nothing significant) but also the community. Some survey recently ranked it as number one among boarding schools… As someone who is entering so late I see it as a great opportunity. </p>
<p>I guess I will do my best in conveying that to them!</p>