New Field students share their first impressions, from favorite classes to the warm, supportive community that makes Field exceptional. Learn what makes our private middle and high school in Washington, DC, a place to grow, connect, and thrive.
It feels like the blink of an eye from the time we send out acceptance letters to the day our new students begin arriving on campus for preseason, orientation, and ultimately, the first day of school. Watching our new students make new friends and connections, learn to navigate our campus, and enthusiastically wave hello each morning reminds us how exciting—and rewarding—the work of building a school community truly is. The beginning of each school year emphasizes how fortunate we are to be part of the Field community.
As we settled into the rhythm of the new year, we decided to check in with a handful of our newest Falcons to hear directly from them about their Field experience so far. Meet 9th and 7th graders Alexandra ’29 and Erickson ’31, as well as Rose ’32 and Dean ’32, two 6th graders joining their Upper School siblings on campus. These four students capture what makes Field a remarkable place to learn and grow.
Alexandra, Grade 9
What's been most interesting about your first weeks? "I'd say the most interesting is my biology class. We're studying bacteria. Yesterday we swabbed bacteria from our deodorant to see how it slows the growth of bacteria that cause body odor, put it in a petri dish and incubated it, and in seven days, we'll see how it's going!"
What are you most looking forward to this year? "Getting to know Field more, calling it my second home, you know? Over the past few weeks, I've grown to understand the schedule. I was intimidated at first, and now, just two weeks in, I get it, and my friends and I are finding the best spots to get our work done."
How would you sum up the Field community? "Caring and helpful. I know people say teachers want you to succeed—that's SO true here. I'm already getting help from people because everyone wants you to do well and be happy."
Erickson, Grade 7
What's been most interesting about your first weeks? "One of the most interesting things that has happened to me is probably homework. I have more! It's not my favorite, but at least it's interesting. I like my classes, and the other kids are nice here."
What are you most looking forward to this year? "I am looking forward to doing math because I like math. Susanna is my teacher and she's nice."
How would you sum up the Field community? "Kind or nice."
Rose, Grade 6
What's been most interesting about your first weeks? "Hmmmm… Probably changing all of the classes. It is a lot different than in elementary school."
What are you most looking forward to this year? "I am looking forward to all the other activities. I have a sport in the fall (volleyball), but I'm excited for winter and spring activities."
How would you sum up the Field community? "Open to everyone. Support everyone, include everyone in everything."
How do you like going to school with your sister? "I love it—I think it is nice. I don't totally see her all the time because she is in a different section, but I like seeing someone I can say hi to."
Dean, Grade 6
What's been most interesting about your first weeks? "Getting really into math."
What are you most looking forward to this year? "Student Government. I want to get involved."
How would you sum up the Field community? "Dare to be Wise." [Field's motto]
How do you like going to school with your brother? "Greeeaaatttt!" [he chuckled]
As our new students settle into the rhythm of Field life—building friendships and confidence to carry them through the year—the Admission office turns its attention to selecting the next class of Falcons. We are particularly excited to connect with siblings of our students who are applying to Field as part of their school search for the 2026-27 School Year.
Application Timeline
Several Ways for Your Family to Experience Field:
We're Here to Support You. Whether you have questions about academics, community life, or how your child might thrive at Field, we're happy to schedule a conversation. Don't hesitate to reach out—supporting families through the admission process is one of our favorite parts of the job!
Jason Hersom
Director of Upper School Admission
[email protected], (202) 295-5820
Kate Breslin
Director of Middle School Admission
[email protected], (202) 295-5864
Here’s to another wonderful year of discovery, growth, and community at Field!
