17 Exclusive Insights Into the Secret World Of An Elite Private School

Know how elite private schools function before enrolling your kids. A forum user asked for insider info on them. Now reviewing top forum responses.

MORE INFORMATION BY ORIGINAL POSTER

"My daughter is starting at an elite private school. I'm seeking advice from fellow parents or alumni. She's moving from a small church-affiliated preschool which is a big jump. Want to understand the pros and cons. Pro: excellent opportunities. Con: predominately wealthy & white."

EXCELLENT EDUCATION

"Received an excellent education, well-prepared for university. This is largely due to the rigorous IB program.

RICH PEOPLE SKILLS

“I learned a lot of rich people skills that help me with networking. We had separate summer and winter camps, so I learned how to ride horses, play golf and tennis, ski, etc.”

SOCIAL NORMS AND ETIQUETTE

“I learned the social norms and etiquette of the upper class very early on in life, which has served me well.”

NO CLASS DIVERSITY

"Met people worldwide, but all from rich families. Graduated out of touch, often embarrassing myself."

STRUGGLED WITH MAKING DECISIONS

"Our structured days were beneficial but left me struggling with decision-making in university due to always having decisions made for me."

BARELY HAVE AN ACTUAL NETWORK

"Lacking a strong high school network, mine comes mostly from university. Parents could save time & money by focusing more on university education. -"

VERY ISOLATING

“Boarding schools can be very isolating. If someone messes up socially, that’s it. They’re shunned until it blows over.”

LOTS OF ANXIETY AND COMPETITION

"College admissions sparked anxiety and competition. One friend had a panic attack for not getting into Princeton. She's now at the LSE and doing well."

SORT OUT THE CONS THROUGH CREATIVE ENDEAVORS

"Diversity & narrow life perspective are elite private schools' issues. Overcome these, and the pros are endless. Expose your child to real-world experiences."

BE INVOLVED OR GIVE HEAVILY

"Be involved or donate heavily to schools, they'll prioritize accommodating you. My wife became vital to our kids' school. Though exhausting, it made the school more flexible for our needs."

THEY ARE WORTH EVERY PENNY

“These schools are worth every penny and will position her well for life workwise, college-wise, and socially.”

I RECOMMEND IT WHOLEHEARTEDLY

"I attended a private school in Chicago city, despite not coming from money. The diverse exposure broadened my perspective. Private schools can foster cliques, but outside activities can counter this. They're superior to public schools. Highly recommended."

MY CHILDREN ARE FLOURISHING

"I also attended a private school and my children, currently attending, exceed my expectations with emotional intelligence, fitness, communication and dedication to learning."

THEY FOSTER CRITICAL THINKING

"I attended a top-rated private school, costing $40k tuition. It instilled critical thinking, offered global learning opportunities, and shaped my worldview. Many of my peers are now thriving on Wall Street or running their own companies."

CONTINUE TO GRIND TO GET AHEAD

"She'll be told for 12 years that she needs to work hard and become a 'leader of tomorrow'. She may feel burnt out, realizing the pressure to work hard continues into college, grad school, and work-wise. She may conclude that enjoying her childhood and networking could have been more beneficial."

GREAT FOR COLLEGE PLACEMENT AND NETWORKING

“Will be a college placement and network play. Have not heard good things about boarding schools, but elite private day schools seem to be preferred.”

REQUIRES WORKING EXTRA HARD

"Work hard to keep her grounded with diverse experiences, not entitled. Try volunteering. Limit gifts and money access to ensure appreciation."

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