Top Ten: Things You Should Do Before You Graduate
1. Paint the Lion
After arriving on campus in 1943, painting the lion has been a long-lasting tradition at Williston. For events, big games, and birthdays, students have taken to painting the lion the night before. Though a traditionally senior activity, all grade levels are welcomed to decorate the statue.
2. Go to Mt. Tom’s During Study Hall
Everyone on campus is familiar with the popular Mt. Tom’s Homemade Ice Cream in downtown Easthampton, but not all have experienced the allure of going during a once forbidden time. As proctors or seniors on honors, students are given the opportunity to venture out into the world during Study Hall. Nothing tastes sweeter than Williston Wild Cake Batter when everyone else is studying for a Pre-Calc test.
3. Befriend Mr. Teller
Everyone has heard the infamous “Shhhh!” of a Williston librarian at least once or twice, but not everyone has experienced Mr. Teller’s phenomenal storytelling. If you have an extra hour or three, be sure to stop in and ask for a tale.
4. Skate on the Pond
The varsity hockey team enjoying an afternoon on the pond.
When winter time comes around and Physical Plant declares the safety of the ice, the pond becomes a popular attraction on campus. With a fully-functioning rink, skating on the pond becomes one of the few enjoyable outdoor activities in winter.
5. Climb Mt. Tom
Be it the remarkable view or the fun hike, Mt. Tom is an enticing activity whenever the sun is shining. Be it fall or spring, overlooking Easthampton is enough to make your heart grow three sizes.
6. Take Six Classes
A look a busy Williston schedule.
Free time is a term that most Williston students are not familiar with. Despite that fact, it is a great experience to erase what little of it you have for at least one trimester. Nothing says Prep School quite like having an 8:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. job at age sixteen.
7. Sing Around the Piano at the Hills’ House
Students gathered at the Hill’s house following the Winter Banquet.
With formal events peppered throughout senior year, be sure to stick around for dessert at the Headmaster’s house. You will, without fail, find yourself crowed around the piano belting out Sammy along with other festive tunes.
8. Ring the bell
Ringing the Victory Bell is a privilege that all students should have at least once at Williston, though many are able to experience it quite often. After working hard to take home the W, be sure to celebrate.
9. Go All-Out for an Event
The student section at Williston hockey’s Beat Deerfield Game ignoring Deerfield’s celebration following a goal.
Be it a football game, Pink in the Rink, or the dance concert, there is no shame in going a little crazy. Never forget that if you don’t show up, you get shown up.
10. Try Something New
Several Williston students trying their hand at acting for the first time in the spring production of Shakespeare’s As You Like It.
Though most students involved in sports and the performing arts are veterans, there is no shame in trying something completely new to you. Audition for the play, try out for varsity, do winter dance, or take a visual arts class. With so many amazing opportunities at Williston, it is an absolute shame to let any of them go to waste.
