Declan Earp, Daily Seal Student Writer
As the school year comes to an end and summer soon approaches, the SMS eighth graders are eagerly anticipating their transitions to high school. This anticipation comes with much nervousness, but also excitement. There are so many new clubs, sports, and classes to try. I’m certain that every member of this class will excel in the interests they choose to pursue.
While we prepare for graduation, recent alumni are thriving at their new secondary schools. To gain insight into recent alumni, let’s take a look at three students from the Class of 2025 and the advice they’d give to current eighth graders.
Caroline Whitlock ‘25 – St. George’s School, Middletown, RI
“High school can open up more opportunities,” Caroline shared. “I got to try playing field hockey, which I had never played before.” She also mentioned meeting new people in field hockey, and how that opened up new experiences, stating, “I now sing in chapel at St. George’s, which is something I never would have done at St. Michael’s.”
When asked for advice, she said, “Be you, because nobody really cares.” She mentioned that pursuing real interests and being herself right off the bat was how she found her people. “So it’s scary, and it’s daunting, but just know that you will find your people. It might not be immediately, and it might not be who you think your people are,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of keeping an open mind.
Juni Wolfskehl ‘25 – Portsmouth High School, Portsmouth, RI
Juni shared a similar sentiment, saying, “In high school, there are so many different groups you can be a part of, and you don’t have to be one specific person. You can choose the person that you want to be.” She talked about the wider variety of options and how she felt like she could participate in things more tailored to her interests. She also mentioned wishing she’d talked to teachers about which classes to take, as some classes were too easy or too hard.
“In the first couple weeks of high school, ideas can get solidified about you,” she said, noting that putting yourself out there is the best way to combat rumors. “Be very conversational with people, and the next couple months will be easier with the friend groups you’re in, and the teachers you know.”
Gavin McNally ‘25 – Avon Old Farms, Avon, CT
When asked about the biggest change that he experienced, Gavin responded, “The workload probably increased by two, but you’re also allotted a lot more mandatory time to complete homework.” He emphasized that academics are more rigorous and that a larger weight is placed on grades. “Towards the end of eighth grade, something I wish I had done was to continue my work ethic towards classes and sports. I feel like I sort of just let it slip as far as the last month.”
Going into high school, he mentioned the importance of spending time on campus and with peers, something that his boarding lifestyle has made easier. “It lets you get the full scheme of [the things that the school offers, as well as] meeting new people, and getting to make connections with teachers, and that’s really important, I feel.”
Throughout this year, every eighth grader has shown amazing growth alongside their peers. Seeing my friends and classmates perform, win games, and deliver speeches has been such an amazing experience, and is something I’ll certainly miss about St. Michael’s. It’s become increasingly clear that this growth will continue as they transition into schools such as St. George’s, Pomfret, Deerfield, Portsmouth High School, and Portsmouth Abbey.
Just as every alum is charting their own course, pursuing all kinds of interests and experiences, we eighth graders will soon do the same.
The Daily Seal 
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