Stories

It is the season of celebrations at Charlotte Prep, and the incredible journey of 8th grader Lauren R. is certainly worth celebrating. Lauren recently received news of her acceptance into the prestigious and highly competitive Walnut Hill School for the Arts for musical theater!

Charlotte Prep students are empowered to write their own stories and, after 8th grade, graduate to their best-fit high school. For some, that means finding an intensive environment that matches their specific passions. 

We sat down with Lauren and her parents to discuss the audition process, the decision to pursue boarding school, and how her time at Prep laid the foundation for this exciting leap.

When did you first realize that musical theater was more than just an extracurricular activity for you?

The moment I knew that theater wasn’t just a hobby, but a passion, was when I stepped on stage for the first time as the queen in Charlotte Prep’s production of Once Upon a Mattress. I realized that if I could change even one person’s life by doing something I love, it would be enough. Since then, I have tried to share the gift I was lucky enough to find.

When did you know that Walnut Hill was the right high school for you?

I was very nervous during my first visit, but the second I got into the room, I felt safe, like this was a place where they truly wanted me to succeed. That feeling reminded me of my experience at Prep, and that made Walnut Hill feel like my home away from home.

What was the audition process like?

I was nervous because my family and I had worked so hard for this. I was the last to audition, but my nerves eased when they led me into the black box, because I always feel so at home in a theater. I sang "Not A Day Goes By" from Merrily We Roll Along, took a few notes from the director, and sang it again. By this point, the difficult part was over. I felt a strong connection with these people who were practically strangers because performing truly connects me with people.

What are you most excited about attending Walnut Hill?

I am so excited to stretch myself as an individual in a community of artists. I want to challenge myself and find my limits while learning more every day about the passion I've pursued for the past five years. Most importantly, I want to one day pass along everything I learn to the next generation.

How do you feel about the idea of living on campus?

I think it will be a huge adjustment, but an important life skill. It will teach me how to live on my own, do laundry, and clean dishes—but it also gives me the chance to learn to appreciate my schoolmates’ different perspectives. This school has students from all over the world, and the fact that I will be able to learn about their different cultures and opinions fascinates me.

How do you think your time at Prep helped prepare you for this?

The word “prepare” in Charlotte Preparatory School is an understatement. Prep has taught me so much about myself and the world. I have learned how to be independent but also part of a community, how to take risks, and how to be true to myself. I am so honored to be able to call myself a Prep alumna in less than a month.

Her Parents’ Perspective

For Lauren’s parents, the realization that boarding school was the right fit happened during a panel discussion at Prep’s boarding school fair last fall. As the speakers described the traits of a successful boarding student, every descriptor sounded exactly like Lauren. When Lauren turned to them with a knowing glance, they knew this was the right choice for their family.

They were excited by the opportunity to offer Lauren a different high school experience that matched her focused passions. Having watched her grow into an organized and responsible student during her middle school years at Prep, they felt confident she was ready to get the most out of an immersive environment—whether that be through Harkness classes at Phillips Exeter or equine training at an all-girls school like Foxcroft.

To other parents whose children have niche passions, they offer this encouragement:

"Boarding school can be an adventure for the passionate student who is ready for the challenge. It provides the opportunity to surround themselves with other focused, committed students. Iron sharpens iron. Don’t be intimidated by the higher tuition, as many schools have a commitment to accessibility and the resources to help families find an affordable option."

Congratulations, Lauren! We can't wait to see your name in lights.

Learn More About High School Placement