Photo: Michael Peluso ’25.
At Northwood School, there are four floors of boys’ halls, two floors in Bergamini, and two floors in East. All four floors have a great culture and connection, but I think it is safe to say that Second East is the most desired hall to live in, and that is due to one main reason, in my opinion—the lounge and the culture that comes with it.
The lounge is a small common area right in the center of the hall. Comprising two couches, a chair, a TV, and a fridge, this is where the majority of the boys spend their time in the hall. Every single night, as soon as the study hall is over, everybody rushes back to the hall to try to claim a seat for the night. Someone, usually Gus Garvey, is throwing a game on the TV, which right now is most likely playoff hockey. Garvey has been in this hall for two years now and can speak very strongly about the culture in the lounge.
Sometimes, it gets a bit too rowdy in this hall. People pulling chairs up from all over the place or even sitting on the floor. Everyone passes snacks around while getting into the game or having a controversial debate in the hall. The volume often gets raised way too high, and warnings are given out about quieting down.
Photo: Michael Peluso ’25.
Everyone is going to leave Northwood School with memories that took place in this lounge, even if they didn’t live in the hall. Students from the third are always coming down to spend time, and guys from Berg do the same. Even during the day, the lounge gets packed. Students will spend their off periods there studying with others or just hanging out.
The lounge is really a strong symbol of Northwood. It’s an area where everyone can come together, no matter who you are, where you’re from, or what sport you play. “The culture on Second East, the energy in the lounge, and the stories I heard every night were the reasons I requested to live up here.” Gavin Carr said.
During the last week and a half of school, I am sure the lounge will be as loud as ever, as the guys try to capture some of the previous memories of their time at Northwood before they move on as this is one of the spots that students cherish the most and will always remember.