Read more details about Bodwell High School on their 2025 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
Bodwell isn’t just a place you study it’s a place that prepares you to live and lead in a global society. What I found unique was their Capstone Project program, where seniors tackled real-world problems through interdisciplinary approaches. It pushed us to be independent thinkers and problem-solvers, rather than just passive students.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
Winning a scholarship for my leadership contributions was a highlight. Bodwell made me more self-aware and resilient.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
If I had to do it over, I’d say more time at bodwell so as to getting more opportunities earlier. My advice is don’t wait to feel ready just dive in. I wish i had applied earlier.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
For me, the best part of Bodwell was its international community and leadership opportunities. Being surrounded by students from every continent gave me a real-world understanding of diversity and global issues, which shaped the way I think and communicate. Whether it was through student council, debate, or organizing campus events, the school constantly gave me chances to lead, collaborate, and grow. It wasn’t just about academics it was about becoming the kind of person who could make an impact anywhere.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
New students, make sure you attend the International Food Night it’s one of the best events all year. Also, check out the quiet study lounge on the 3rd floor it’s the perfect spot during exams. As for snacks? Thomas Haas across the street, just dont get caught in between lessons
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Academically, Bodwell offers a wide range of courses everything from AP Calculus to Global Perspectives. What stood out most to me was how connected the teachers were with us. They knew our goals and often adjusted assignments to match our interests. I once got to do a paper on urban planning in relation to sustainable development something I was genuinely passionate about given that i was coming from a third world country.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Athletics were built into the fabric of student life. I played on the soccer team and was part of the intramural basketball league because there was no marathon. What made Bodwell different was that they didn’t push only elite athletes, i got to travel with the basketball team as their manager helping out with the team though i did not play. Everyone had a place to play, and the coaches really focused on personal development and team spirit rather than just trophies.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
I wasn’t deeply involved in the arts, but I attended every show. The quality of theatre performances was surprisingly ok given the school size. One year they staged Les Misérables with full costumes and a live orchestra. The music program had a student-run jazz band that played during special dinners and events, creating a really rich campus culture.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
Bodwell offered dozens of clubs from sports and chess to entrepreneurship. I was also in a tech club where we built a basic app for organizing student events. The flexibility to start your own group is what impressed me most as they really empowered students to lead.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Dorm life was diverse, lively, and surprisingly structured though i lived in homestay. There were check-in times and quiet hours, which helped maintain a productive environment. I had a single room in my last year, which gave me more space to focus. Dorm parents were strict but caring, and organized cultural nights that helped us learn about each other.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The food was very international given the structure of the student body. One week we had Indian biryani, the next week Korean bibimbap. Breakfasts were simple but reliable. My favorite part was the Friday night dessert bar, which felt like a reward after a long week. No assigned seating meant you could eat with new people any time.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
North Vancouver is peaceful and beautiful. There’s a walking trail behind the school that leads to the water, and we often went there to hang out or clear our minds. You’re close enough to the city to enjoy it, but far enough to focus when needed.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
You build friendships quickly in a boarding environment, and Bodwell encourages this with social events like culture fairs, dances, and off-campus excursions. I remember spending hours in the quay by the shore with friends just talking about life and our futures.
Read more details about Bodwell High School on their 2025 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
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Bodwell isn’t just a place you study it’s a place that prepares you to live and lead in a global society. What I found unique was their Capstone Project program, where seniors tackled real-world problems. . .
From the first day I walked into Bodwell, I felt something shift in my life. I was nervous coming from Kazakhstan, with Korean roots, and unsure how I'd fit in. But the school’s diversity and. . .
One thing that sets Bodwell apart from other boarding schools is how much it values and fosters internationalism and not just in theory, but in practice. When I first arrived, I was struck by how. . .
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