“One of my favorite things about Northwood is having the opportunity to be around so many different cultures and learning from them whilst also being able to share mine. Another one of my favorite things is the different experiences I’ve been afforded since being here, like the trips, going to new places, and playing other teams from different countries.

“My favorite memory is going to Las Vegas with the soccer team. It was great to experience a new, fancy place whilst doing what I love most, playing soccer. As a team, we had so much fun when we went down to the strip and got to ride the roller coaster. We also played some good teams and got first place in our group. I played pretty well, and I will remember that trip forever.

“I decided to come to Northwood because of the opportunity that was presented to me. I always say that it was not something I was looking for, but once the opportunity appeared, I took it right away. I was conscious that if I came here, I would be very far from home, missing my family and friends, but I was aware of the great opportunity to further my academics and soccer career in a new environment with a new language and different people. I will never regret my decision; being 15 hours away from home by plane was worth it, and Northwood has become my second family.

“Northwood has prepared me for the future in many ways. Firstly, my English has improved a lot since I came here, and that is a tool that I will need my entire life to communicate, to work, and interact with people. Northwood also taught me big life lessons like new cultures that I’ve learned from a lot throughout my two years so far. This will be useful whenever I travel and meet new people. I’ve improved my game in soccer a lot, thanks to our coaches and teammates. I’ve learned a completely different style of the game for me, which helped me get better and combine my South American style of play with my American one.”

As told to Jace Donowa ’25. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“Language barrier wasn’t a problem at all for me; it was more the culture. People act differently to where I am from, and I had to get used to that.

“I’ve learned a lot from Northwood, like a lot. The culture is so special that you can feel it everywhere you go; it’s way better than any other school or team I have ever been to. The guys are so close to each other, and it was so easy for me to make friends. Whether it is staff or students, they are so friendly and are willing to help you at any time. Northwood prepared me for college not only hockey-wise but academically also. I am way more confident in school.

“I am not sure what I will do for next year, but many doors have opened since I arrived at Northwood. I am still deciding and looking at my options, but coming back to Northwood and doing a post-grad year would sound awesome since this year passed so fast. It was so fun.

“The quote I will leave Northwood with is sweet and simple, but that’s what I remind myself every day. ‘Today is the youngest you will ever be.’ Some advice I would give is that you should never regret doing something you can’t change anymore.”

As told to Charles Pigeon ’26. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“Honestly, I probably would not have seriously played any sport, but rather more of a leisure. If I had to pick a sport other than soccer, I would probably have chosen Golf. There aren’t any specific reasons, but it is just because of the popularity of the sport in Korea. Tennis has also grown in popularity, which might be something that sparked my interest as a kid; it involves quick movements and reaction time.

“Pineapple on pizza? I would argue that pizza tastes better with pineapple, especially when the taste is exceptionally dull. There is a specific pizza where pineapple would destroy the original taste, but I won’t mind having pineapple on pizza.

“Who from Northwood would I like to give a shout-out to? There are multiple people that have my respect and recognition. Still, two people that I want to share this opportunity with are Mr. and Mrs. Roy. Despite not having the most interaction, these two people have been the most genuine, wholesome, and positive (긍정적인) people I have interacted with.

“Mr. Roy, who would greet you with a warm energy whenever you boarded and left his bus to and from the hub, is a person to remember. Although he may not have been experiencing the most fantastic day, he devoted his energy to warmly greeting students. The simple gesture of greeting someone in his own unique way influenced me to appreciate his incredible energy and respond back with positivity. Now that he is no longer here with us, his presence has turned into gratitude and appreciation.
“Mrs. Roy, whom I had less interaction with, had the most impactful experience in providing comfort. At times of need for a ride to Saranac Lake, she was open to help in assistance. I was thankful for her openness to help and how comfortable she made the ride feel. We exchanged invaluable conversations, and she created an environment where I was able to share personal stories with her. Despite being my first year at Northwood, her quiet, thoughtful, charming personality created a warm atmosphere that helped me feel welcomed. She was influential in my adjustment, making it easier to settle in.
“It is through the Roy family that I was able to experience how impactful small acts of kindness can be.

“Specifically, as a student-athlete, I think finding the right balance between what to prioritize is crucial in consistently achieving the goals of your desire. This may apply to student-athletes and athletes in general; it is difficult to do everything exceptionally well. Not everything is obtainable simultaneously in school, sports, or social life. Therefore, it is important to understand what is important and what isn’t to you. Since there is only so much time and energy you could devote in a single day, sacrificing what is wanted for what is needed is crucial.”

As told to Gavin Kriger ’26. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“I think coming to Northwood was one of the best decisions I made. It changed the way I see the world and myself a lot.

“Growing up in Bermuda affected how I perceive the whole culture here at Northwood. The cultural difference between Bermuda and Northwood was huge. So, when I first got here, it took me some time to get used to everything and adapt to this new norm and reality. My childhood in Bermuda allowed me to see life differently and embrace other cultures.

“If I could tell my younger self something when I first arrived at Northwood, it would be to embrace the whole experience and to use all the resources given to me. I feel like when I first came, I took advantage of the soccer opportunities but didn’t utilize the academic and community opportunities I was given. So, while I wasn’t behind because of this, I could’ve been at a much better place had I utilized those opportunities earlier.

“After Northwood, I plan to attend college and set myself up for the next step towards my goal. As of now, I’m committed to playing for the soccer program at UNC Chapel Hill. From there, the next step is to get drafted and get a professional contract, and if that doesn’t work, I’m still trying to figure out what I would want to do, but maybe something still in the sports industry or of that nature.

“I truly am very thankful for all that Northwood has given me, the growth I’ve gone through since my arrival, and the bonds I’ve made since my arrival. As sad as I’ll be to depart at the end of the year, I feel I’m prepared and ready to take on the next steps on the path to my goal.”

As told to Noah Moodey ‘26. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“Some of my favorite things about Northwood would have to be the people, Soccer, and location. At Northwood, student-athletes are given so much exposure to various aspects of life, which is something that I really enjoy. As far as the opportunities I have been given, my best memory so far would have to be going to Costa Rica for L.E.A.P. This was an experience of a lifetime and something I will never forget.

“Northwood has given me many opportunities to improve my academics and has taught me discipline to prepare me for life afterwards. Since being here, I have tried to stay true to myself and embrace the entire process. I do not want to look back on my time here at Northwood and have any regrets, so I try to make the best out of everyday life.

“Five years ago, I did not think that I would be playing soccer this competitively. The program’s environment has allowed me to develop so much as a player and athlete. Along with the numerous trips, our training schedule allows me and my teammates to improve daily. Being a part of the program is one of the best decisions I have made in my lifetime so far.”

As told to Jace Donowa ’25. Photo provided.

“One moment that stuck out to me during my four years here was playing pickleball outside during my junior year, during spring with my friends. Something about the weather, scenery, and vibes made the moment one to remember.  My favorite meal here is orange chicken and rice. I would almost pay for them to make it more often.

“I am a four-year senior here at Northwood. I am a ski racer and enjoy freeskiing in my free time. My favorite things to do with friends here are play soccer, go into town, free ski, watch hockey games, go skating, and play Fortnite. Playing soccer on the outdoor turf during evenings with pretty skies is always a blast.

“During breaks, I like to spend time with family and friends. I am a day student, so I see my family daily, but spending extra time with them is still nice. I work at a marina in the summer, and it is fun. I also like to golf with my friends during the fall, summer, and spring.

“My favorite teacher here is Ms. Van Slyke because she has helped me get through a lot and is always there for me. I also enjoy her art class a lot. I will miss Northwood when I graduate. Northwood has been my second home for the past four years. It will always have a place in my heart.”

As told to Yosef Spear ’26. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“I was born and raised in Brick, New Jersey. I learned about Northwood through the old Prep hockey coach, Coach Morris. He used to talk to my father a lot, and that’s how I ended up meeting Coach Mallaro. My cousin, Camden, also went to Northwood and had only good things to say about it. At first, I wasn’t too sure about going to a boarding school since I had never left home. For the last three years, I played with the NJ Titans and went to Brick High School, where my entire family also graduated. I had a big decision to make, but I realized that Northwood is a lot like college, and it would prepare me for success. I was thrilled and excited to come here, but leaving all my friends and family was hard.

“It didn’t take long to get new buddies; my problem now was that I was too occupied enjoying my time here. I had trouble finding time to call my girlfriend and my family, I was having so much fun. This place is so special, and it’s for sure been the fastest school year I ever had. I have grown as a player and as a person at Northwood. I have learned how to live away from home and develop another side to my game. It is very easy to succeed at Northwood since you’re surrounded by like-minded individuals. The culture here is contagious; everyone respects each other and pushes each other hard to achieve our individual goals.

“My plan for next year is to play for a junior hockey team and take a few online college courses. I can proudly say that I am ready for college, not only hockey-wise but also academically. Although, I am still tempted to post-grad and come back for one more year, since memories over here are life lasting.

‘But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing’ James 1:4.

“My biggest advice for everyone is to just think less!’’

As told to Charles Pigeon ’26. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“Everything happens for a reason; that is what my parents have always told me. This is a line I consider when there are obstacles in my life. I understand they are there for a reason: to teach me how to adapt. No matter where or what situation I am put in, that is always in the back of my mind. It plays into all parts of my life, whether with people, school, sports, or family. Knowing that everything is occurring, good or bad, is there for a reason. No matter the intensity, I will come out of it with either a positive or a lesson.

“I have always been taught to put my best foot forward. No matter what situation I am in, something positive can always come out of it. When coming to Northwood, I knew I wanted to pursue hockey at a higher level, but as it came time to leave, I felt nerves setting in. I left home at 14, and while I have no regrets about it, there are days when I miss home more than others. When coming to Northwood, I knew the goal was to play Division 1 college hockey, and with that in my future, I am proud to say that I have completed one of many goals. However, I was raised in a way where I was never taught to be satisfied, where no matter what I have accomplished, there is always another level to get to. Always be humble, but do not let anything get in the way of your dreams. I think about this often and use it as motivation when the days are long and exhaustion is setting in.

“Northwood has brought more surprises and more people into my life than expected. I always figured I would make friends here, but I had no idea they would turn into my family. There are so many ways I could describe my gratefulness for the people here, and in saying that, the goodbyes to come and those that have gone are hard. Saying goodbye to your best friends and wishing them well in college is no easy feat, and then turning around and saying goodbye to the people who will still be here is another hard step. There are so many things that come with goodbyes, but when I think about the end of the school year and having to get ready to leave for college, I reflect on the Winnie the Pooh quote that states, “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” This always reminds me that no matter where I am going or however my life will change, I have people in my corner who have made goodbyes hard, and that is a precious thing to hold on to.”

As told to Eliza Quackenbush ’25. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

“I love pickles, olives, and anything that’s sour. I have an interesting taste in food, for sure.

“I came to Northwood for skiing and to be in a competitive environment where I could pursue skiing in college. Thus far, my favorite part of Northwood has been the connections I have made and the friends I’ve found. I also love the environment of Lake Placid and the nature we’re surrounded by.

“My ski team before Northwood had fewer opportunities to ski in college because it was in Canada, which made Northwood more appealing to me. At Northwood, I have learned to be open-minded and enjoy my time here. My biggest takeaway has been to talk to new people and capitalize on all the opportunities in front of me.

“Besides skiing, I enjoy painting and playing soccer. I like art, drawing, and sewing too.

“A piece of advice I would give an incoming Northwood student would be to stay open-minded and be yourself. The environment here is very enriching and allows you to grow as a person.”

As told to Sydney Kuder ’25. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.