Hi everyone!
Congratulations! I am a current prep (9th grader) at Phillips Exeter Academy and can answer questions for any recently accepted students. I remember being on CC last year and freaking out after M10 and want to help people in the same place, so ask away! You can also ask me for help about deciding between schools because I had to make a tough decision last year.
Also, current students, alums, or parents from Exeter can feel free at any time to answer questions as well.
How is the culture there? Is it as cutthroat/competitive as its reputation makes it seem?
@trynagetthere I haven’t experienced the toxic and competitive aspect of Exeter, and it probably varies by each graduating class. Upperclassmen might also be more competitive around college season, but even my upperclassmen friends seem chill. A lot of people joke about suffering here, but I think that it really isn’t as bad as people make it seem. I wouldn’t worry too much about people or the school being cutthroat. 
Overall people seem to be relatively happy and easygoing.
@midtowngirl thanks! I’ll be entering as a PG, do you know how well they are integrated into the community? Do PGs usually form one group or do they intermix nicely with other students? Are they mostly athletes/international students?
@trynagetthere from my understanding, PG’s are really well received here. Some are mostly friends with other PG’s and others have mostly senior friends; it just depends. Most of the PG’s are athletes, but don’t stress too much if that isn’t your case. You will probably mix in well with Exeter’s class of 2019, who seem to be a really nice and accepting group.
I agree with @midtowngirl --the PGs generally slide right in at PEA. They are, it is true, generally friends with their athlete peers but Exeter is not clique-y. The cliques that do exist are not exclusionary to any degree. Lastly PGs are mixed in across campus housing-wise. Housing placements re generally pretty well thought out too.
@trynagetthere as a current senior at Exeter, I can tell you that it is one of the most supportive environments I’ve ever been in. The only true competitive culture comes from students working themselves!! (But even that is usually for the best!)
Thanks so much for your responses! I was wondering what classes do seniors usually take and if there are any particular good or popular classes to experience as a senior
Do most students have ample time to pursue other activities besides studying in their rooms?
Yes! Almost every Exonians is involved in activities. Most of them multiple beyond studying and sports.