SIX UNIQUE BOARDING SCHOOL BENEFITS IN A COLLEGE CITY (LIKE PRINCETON!)
Imagine living in the heart of a vibrant, artistic city, while feeling a sense of comfort and home. Imagine having easy access to some of the country’s most fascinating cultural venues and significant historical sites, while learning in a safe, supportive space. Imagine dining, shopping, and exploring with people from all over the world, while being part of a small, joyful community.
That’s what it’s like to live and learn at The Hun School of Princeton – and it stems from the unique benefits of being a boarding school in one of our country’s most renowned and idyllic college cities.
Traditionally, boarding school life offers many unparalleled student advantages, from academic support and faculty mentorship, to independence, community involvement, and more. Yet when those boarding school benefits are paired with the world-class opportunities found in a place like Princeton, New Jersey, the possibilities for student growth and achievement skyrocket.
What are the benefits of choosing a boarding school located in a college town (like Princeton)? Here are the top six reasons why Hun students love living here:
#1: The academically-minded community
Princeton is considered a “college city” because it’s one of the most academically minded communities in the world, home to Princeton University, the Institute for Advanced Study, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, and many other illustrious educational institutions.
Cities like Princeton with a dedicated population of students tend to cater to student interests and needs, providing rich academic, social, and economic opportunities. It’s a place both to expand your horizons and meet diverse people who share your interests and passions.
"Princeton ignited my intellectual curiosity and introduced me to a new social world. It... challenged me on the most fundamental levels imaginable. "
Bill Bradley Former US Senator (D-NJ)
#2: Exceptional student activities and excursions
With downtown Princeton and Princeton University within walking distance of the Hun School campus, it’s easy for boarding high school students to make the city their home away from home.
The Hun School students enjoy visiting the Princeton University art museum and library, as well as exploring the city’s multicultural restaurants and cafes, movie theaters, museums, and shops. They often catch shows at McCarter Theatre; hike, bike, and boat at nearby parks and preserves; attend music festivals; and more. There’s always something keeping students busy at schools located in a college town.
#3: A supportive introduction to college life
Frequently voted the number one small city in America, Princeton is the perfect place for upper-school boarding students to begin exploring their interests, hone their life skills, and gain independence.
The Hun School offers students a college-like boarding school experience on an intimate scale. Boarding students get to safely experience life away from home within the supportive confines of the Hun School community.
#4: Expanded educational opportunities
Student outings are designed to complement classroom learning, enriching the Hun School curriculum with trips to Princeton cultural venues and exposure to historically significant sites and artifacts. (Did you know there are three copies of the United States Constitution at Princeton University's Firestone Library?)
The city is home to incredible arts and entertainment destinations, such as the Morven Museum and Garden, the Princeton Battlefield State Park, and numerous art galleries. Plus, it’s only 45 miles to Philadelphia and 50 miles to New York City!
Did You Know?
It is told that during the Battle of Princeton, Alexander Hamilton ordered his cannon to fire upon the British soldiers taking refuge in Nassau Hall. One of the cannonballs was shot through the head of the portrait of King George II that hung in the chapel, which was eventually replaced with a portrait of George Washington. A few years earlier Hamilton had been refused accelerated study at Princeton University, which was housed in Nassau Hall.
#5: Community involvement and impact
Living and learning within a college city provides students with a variety of ways to get involved, both on The Hun School campus and within the greater Princeton community.
Whether it’s reading with children at a local elementary school or organizing a basketball clinic, Hun students have ample opportunities to participate in service projects that impact the greater good within their school and local communities.
#6: Diverse people, cultures, and experiences
Not only is the Hun community made up of students from dozens of countries and states, of all races, religions, and orientations, but so is the surrounding Princeton community.
Boarding school students gain an immersive introduction to the wider world, living and learning alongside peers from diverse cultures and backgrounds on The Hun School campus, and deepening their cultural competency through exposure to city life and experiences.
Attending a boarding school located in a college town or college city, like The Hun School, offers students the best of both worlds – the supportive small school community, and the excitement and opportunities of a cultural destination.
Are you ready to explore boarding school life at The Hun School – and make Princeton your home away from home? Visit our Admissions page to learn how to apply, or contact us at (609) 921-7600 or admission@hunschool.org for more information.