Freshman fall at Concord Academy is all about new beginnings, whether you’re coming from across the world or right across the street. With everything CA has to offer, walking through the front doors may seem overwhelming. That’s why your first semester is designed to help you find your community and adjust to the rhythm of high school.
The pass/fail system—first-semester classes showing up on transcripts as either “pass” or “no credit” — exists as a safeguard as you transition into life at CA. You can spend more time getting to know your classmates, figuring out a study schedule, or trying your hand at new hobbies, without additional academic stress. Remember that freshman year is a time to explore and figure out your footing, so don’t expect perfection right off the bat.
Most freshmen take the same majors, or core classes: science, English, math, foreign language, and history. Most freshmen take Biology as an introductory course, diving into concepts through videos and hands-on experiments. Meanwhile, English focuses on developing skills for the future by challenging all freshmen to read and write about exciting classic literature like The Odyssey. Placement tests determine math and language levels, while students can request their history electives. The 9th Grade Seminar is taken in the fall and is taught by teachers from different departments. The material taught in the class ranges from physical health to accessing academic resources. This class will help you maximize your first semester and introduce you further to CA.
Many students also take minors — semester courses which range from the arts to computer science. There’s a variety to choose from, and you can take whatever sparks your interest! A semester of computer science is required for CA students, which most freshmen complete by taking Creative Computing, a fun introductory course about digital tools. If you wish, you can opt for a higher-level class upon taking a placement test.
Worried about choosing the right course? CA allows for a drop/add period at the beginning of both semesters. Dropping or adding a course commonly applies to scheduling conflicts, switching an elective, or changing out of a difficult class, so use the first week to figure out the schedule and courses.
Your faculty advisors will be especially helpful during the drop/add process. As direct supporters, advisors will have one-on-one meetings with advisees throughout the year, so communication is key. Go to them with any issues or questions you may have; like other CA adults, they want to see you thrive.
Finally, don’t forget to attend some of the fun events CA offers! Getting tacos from food trucks and playing volleyball outside on the Quad is one way to relax at the end of your week. Loud not your thing? Attend a club that’s doing arts and crafts! There are numerous weekend activities as well, including shopping trips, hiking, and cooking on campus. Additionally, there are all-school dances a few times during the year, where students can enjoy a night of music, food, and fun with friends.
You may not fully familiarize yourself with the school within the turmoil-filled first couple of days, but as the semester progresses, acknowledge and embrace what makes this community so special. Enjoy lunch in the Freshmen Pit, listen to senior chapels, and explore the countless clubs; what CA has to offer you is unique and bountiful.
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