The Hotchkiss School: Top Academic Institution & Alumni
The Hotchkiss School, established in 1891, is a prestigious coeducational boarding and day institution located in Lakeville, Connecticut. Renowned for its rigorous academics, vibrant arts and athletics programs, and commitment to environmental stewardship, The Hotchkiss School offers a comprehensive educational experience.
Academic Excellence
The Hotchkiss School provides an extensive curriculum with over 250 courses, including advanced programs in STEM, humanities, and world languages. Advanced Placement (AP) and post-AP options are available for students seeking higher-level studies.
The school emphasizes experiential learning through initiatives like the Hotchkiss Summer Portals, independent study opportunities, and partnerships with esteemed institutions such as Yale University.
With an average class size of 12 students, The Hotchkiss School fosters close interaction between students and faculty, promoting a personalized and engaging learning environment.
School Reputation
Consistently ranked among the top boarding schools in the United States, The Hotchkiss School is recognized for excellence in academics, arts, and athletics.
Notable alumni include diplomat Dean Acheson and artist Ellsworth Kelly, highlighting the school's influence across diverse fields.
A substantial endowment ensures outstanding resources, from cutting-edge facilities to highly qualified faculty, supporting the school's mission to provide an exceptional education.
College Placement and Alumni Success
College Placement
Graduates of The Hotchkiss School have a strong track record of matriculating to prestigious colleges and universities. In recent years, students have been accepted to institutions such as:
- Harvard University
- Yale University
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- University of Chicago
- Columbia University
- Dartmouth College
- Brown University
- University of Pennsylvania
These results showcase The Hotchkiss School's excellence in preparing students for higher education.
Notable Alumni
The Hotchkiss School has nurtured numerous accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:
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Dean Acheson: Served as U.S. Secretary of State under President Harry S. Truman, playing a central role in defining American foreign policy during the Cold War.
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Ellsworth Kelly: An influential artist known for his contributions to abstract art and minimalism, with works displayed in major museums worldwide.
These examples highlight The Hotchkiss School's ability to cultivate leadership, creativity, and academic excellence among its students.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Students at The Hotchkiss School can engage in over 90 clubs and organizations, ranging from robotics and debate to environmental action groups, catering to a wide array of interests.
The school offers 20 varsity sports, with strong programs in soccer, swimming, and crew, supported by world-class athletic facilities that promote physical fitness and teamwork.
The arts are central to student life, with opportunities in music, theater, and visual arts, including performances in the state-of-the-art Katherine M. Elfers Hall, fostering creative expression.
Student Life and Campus Culture
Diversity: The Hotchkiss School draws students from over 30 U.S. states and 40 countries, creating a globally minded and inclusive community that enriches the educational experience.
Values: The school promotes character development alongside academic achievement, with a focus on sustainability and community service, aligning with its motto, "Moniti Meliora Sequamur" (Guided by each other, let us seek better paths).
Community: Both boarding and day students benefit from a close-knit, supportive environment, with dormitories fostering mentorship and camaraderie, essential for personal growth.
Location and Safety
The 827-acre campus is located in the scenic Berkshires of northwest Connecticut, surrounded by lakes and forests, providing a tranquil setting conducive to learning and reflection.
The Hotchkiss School offers a safe, peaceful environment, ideal for study and outdoor activities, while being accessible to New York City and Boston for cultural enrichment, broadening students' horizons.
Admissions Requirements
Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of about 17%, The Hotchkiss School is highly competitive, seeking students who demonstrate academic excellence and character.
Testing: Successful applicants typically score in the 85th percentile or above on the SSAT. TOEFL scores are required for non-native English speakers to ensure language proficiency.
Evaluation: The admissions process includes academic records, essays, interviews, and letters of recommendation, with an emphasis on leadership potential and intellectual curiosity, ensuring a holistic review of each candidate.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Annual Tuition: Boarding tuition is approximately 52,000, reflecting the comprehensive educational experience provided.
Financial Aid: The Hotchkiss School meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, with about 35% of students receiving financial assistance. The school's robust financial aid program ensures accessibility for a diverse range of families, upholding its commitment to inclusivity.