Life at MA

Listen To Your Elders

Advice from MA Seniors

By Eloise Marmer ‘28 in Spring 2026

As summer approaches, seniors at MA are reflecting on the moments, lessons, and people that have shaped their journey. I interviewed several seniors and asked them these questions: What is the most important lesson you have learned at MA? A major theme among seniors was learning that both effort and perspective shape growth, and that students have more control over their process than they often realize. As explained by Ben Perkins, “you cannot control your outcomes, only your effort.” He emphasized that what ultimately matters is not a single result, but the patterns of discipline and consistency built over time. Fiona Fisher added the idea of having “personal responsibility for [her] goals,” sharing that MA has so many unique opportunities, whether it is MARC, TLP, or even opportunities students create for themselves, and that it has pushed her to “excel beyond just tests and essays.”  What advice would you give to underclassmen? Across interviews, seniors consistently encouraged underclassmen to stay active in the community and take advantage of opportunities early rather than waiting for the “right time.” A common idea was that high school moves faster than expected, and that involvement in classes, clubs, and activities often leads to the most meaningful memories and relationships. Amy Salama encouraged students to build consistency early in their workload, especially by starting assignments the night they are given, so they can stay organized and make sure they have time to ask for help during tutorial. What makes the MA community special to you? Students described an environment where relationships form naturally across different groups, and where both teachers and peers contribute to a culture of support and familiarity. Many also pointed to the idea that MA relationships tend to build over time, beginning in small interactions but developing into long-term connections that extend beyond the classroom. Jacob Pinguelo reflected this idea by describing MA as a place where students and teachers are genuinely welcoming, making it easy for people to feel comfortable, included, and connected from the start. He went on to say that  “any two seniors can be put in a room, and they will likely talk for hours, no matter how close they are with each other,” highlighting the relationships that the MA community has fostered over their time here. When reflecting on their class identity, seniors highlighted themes of inclusivity, connection, and school culture. Many expressed a hope that their grade would be remembered for how they treated others within the community. Audrey Herpel hopes the Class of 2026 is remembered for being “inclusive of the underclassmen during extracurricular activities such as athletics” and also for the “outgoingness and the kindness [they] showed to make new students feel welcome.” There was also a shared sense that class identity is shaped not just by formal leadership, but by everyday interactions and the way students contribute to the overall environment of the school.