Recent Graduates Speak to the Class of 2009
About “Life After Devon Prep”
While home on Christmas break five members of Devon Prep’s Class of 2008 returned to offer advice and encouragement to their former schoolmates in the Class of 2009.
Rory Crowe (Fairfield University), Nick Gaeto (Washington College), Brandon Mitchell (University of Miami), Dave Evans (St. Joseph University) and Malcolm Phelan (University of Notre Dame) met with the members of the senior class to discuss their experiences as freshmen in college and how they have adapted to life beyond Devon Prep.
They touched on everything from getting involved in activities, to making friends, to dealing with roommates, to managing their free time.
Dave Evans encouraged the seniors to get involved as soon as possible when they start college in the fall. “The more involved you are, the more people you will meet and that will help make the transition easier,” he explained.
Malcolm Phelan agreed. “Most kids are in the same position as you, they don’t know anyone either. Go to orientation, or freshman retreat. Join activities. If you don’t get along with your roommate, that’s OK. That will force you to go out and meet other people.”
They strongly encouraged the members of the Class of 2009 to learn how to manage their time early on. “You will have a lot more free time in college. You really have to learn to manage it well.” Rory Crowe said. “You don’t get a lot of assignments like in high school, usually just a few tests or papers. You really have to make them count.”
They all agreed that Devon Prep prepared them well for their college courses. “I found math was a lot easier in college than here (at Devon Prep),” Nick Gaeto said. Malcolm added, “The AP’s will always help you. Even if you don’t get credit for them, they prepare you well for the courses you take.”
Finally, they told the seniors they will have a lot of freedom to do whatever they want, but they have to take responsibility for their own actions and they will need to think through the choices they make.
“You can get whatever you want and do whatever you want regardless of whether you are at a “party school” or not,” said Brandon Mitchell. “The responsibility lies with you, and the path you choose to go down.”
This forum was sponsored by the College Planning and Placement Department and the Devon Prep Alumni Association.