Interview with St. George's School Alum, Nicolas Wicaksono

The academic excellence of St. George's School stands out. The level of academics was top-notch, and it prepared me well for college studies. I particularly appreciated the Social Studies Department, which gave me critical thinking and analytical skills, rather than mere memorization.

The Social Studies Department provided an environment where students could engage deeply with concepts, and we questioned assumptions and applied knowledge in meaningful ways. The department's structure supported the overall goal of deeper engagement with learning. The space had wide boards, moveable doors, and a flexible layout, allowing for collaboration among classmates and even across different classes. My year was large enough to accommodate two social studies classes happening simultaneously.

The school placed a strong emphasis on community, especially within the boarding program. In boarding, we lived together and participated in a variety of weekday and weekend programming that fostered deep connections among students. Many of these connections have lasted even until today. The sense of community extended beyond students to include faculty members and teachers. This experience was a particularly valuable aspect of my time at St. George’s.

Civic leadership was an important focus at St. George's. The school promoted six core values that were consistently referenced in its programming. Even if the specifics faded, the underlying principles—such as integrity and humility—became deeply ingrained. For example, intellectual humility has been crucial in my research work, as it helps me recognize gaps in my knowledge and seek better information. Similarly, integrity has shaped my career in foreign aid and humanitarian work, encouraging constant reflection on the ethical implications of my actions.

The nurturing environment at St. George's was another key feature. There are challenges, but the faculty and staff are deeply invested in students’ growth. While deadlines and academic rigor might have seemed restrictive at times, they were ultimately designed to support students’ development. The school provided a structured yet supportive atmosphere where students had numerous opportunities to grow academically and personally.

St. George’s encouraged a wide range of extracurricular interests, and that fostered a non-judgmental environment where students could explore their passions. Whether in science, band, theater, or athletics, there was a space for everyone to find their community. This inclusivity helped create a welcoming and dynamic school spirit. The winter hamper drive, for example, showcased this spirit by involving students, teachers, staff, alumni, and community members in a charitable initiative. This event reflected the school’s emphasis on broader community engagement and the sense of belonging that extended beyond the student body.

Initially, I expected a rigid hierarchy, but I was surprised by the genuine connections that formed between faculty and students. Teachers were approachable and engaged with students outside of the classroom, whether in the gym, on weekend excursions, or during boarding activities. This dynamic created a supportive learning environment that was both professional and personable.

Leadership opportunities were an important part of my experience at St. George’s. Despite being an introvert, I developed leadership skills in an organic way, which later influenced my career in public service. I was a transfer student, and I did not initially plan to take on leadership roles, but my involvement in boarding house activities naturally led me to them.The school nurtured a sense of civic engagement, encouraging students to think about their impact on the world beyond their academic achievements.

There were some challenges in integration between boarding and day students. Boarding students formed tight-knit groups, which sometimes made it harder to interact with day students. This divide might have been influenced by cultural differences, as many boarding students were international students. While efforts were made to bridge this gap, more joint activities could have helped foster greater cohesion. Within the boarding house, some students were less engaged due to returning home on weekends, which affected the overall sense of community among boarders.

Reflecting on my time at St. George’s, I have grown to appreciate the school even more. Over time, I have come to consider its role in broader social structures and the implications of its elite status.

St. George’s is a prestigious institution with significant resources, which raises important questions about privilege and socioeconomic inequalities. I personally benefited from a generous scholarship, I believe the school should continue to expand opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. Promoting inclusivity and ensuring access to high-quality education for more students should be a priority for the institution moving forward.

The first reason to choose St. George’s would be that the academic excellence is unparalleled and provides strong preparation for higher education. Second, it’s the sense of community that extends across students, faculty, administrators, and alumni, offering valuable networking and mentorship opportunities. Third, the school emphasizes mission-driven education, ensuring that students not only develop strong technical skills but also cultivate a sense of responsibility and ethical awareness.

My advice to prospective students is to take full advantage of the resources available at St. George’s. Time passes quickly, so it is important to explore different opportunities, build relationships, and engage with faculty. Developing connections with teachers can be particularly beneficial for future academic and professional success. Additionally, students should not hesitate to take risks and push beyond their comfort zones, whether through advanced courses, extracurricular activities, or leadership roles.

For families concerned about the cost, I would encourage them to explore financial aid options. St. George’s has historically offered generous scholarships, and it is worth having a conversation to understand the available opportunities. While not everyone may be eligible for aid, the financial support can be more substantial than expected, making it worthwhile to apply. Overall, St. George’s provides an exceptional educational experience, and I highly recommend considering it as an option.