What Are Exonians Grateful For?

Phillips Exeter Academy celebrated Thank-a Donor Day last Tuesday. At this annual event, students thank the Academy’s donors for their contributions to Exeter. Following a speech by Vivian Wesson ’89, who shared her own appreciation for the Exeter experience, students sent gratitude notes at writing stations in the Academy Building, dining halls and Phelps Commons. The following are some of their messages:

• “I’m thankful for the experiences I’ve gained at this school that I wouldn’t have had anywhere else.” — Nat Kpodonu ’23
• “I’m thankful for all the amazing opportunities offered and the music program especially… We have a lot of practice rooms.” — Lara Muyombwe ’23
• “I’m really thankful for the Brown Technology Grant, which gave me the opportunity to purchase supplies—including the laptop I use for all classes and homework.” —Caleb Yu ’23
• “I was very grateful that I got the opportunity to do a school year abroad in Italy last year.” — Genesis Reyes ’20
• “I, personally, come from a middle-class family, and there is really no way we could pay for Exeter without the generous aid donors to Exeter have given. People mention how donors have changed their Exeter experience—for me, there would be no experience at all without their contributions. Another thing is the money given to fund assembly speakers. Assembly serves as a great way to listen to different opinions or just brighten your day a little bit, and I’m thankful for the donors that help make that small event possible twice a week.” — Rohan Modi ’23
• “I’m really thankful for the fitness center because it’s a place where I can go to take my mind off of school and stay healthy in times of stress.” — Angela Zhang ’23
• “I feel the donors really helped out with my financial situation, and my computer is really useful. I’m also thankful to the teachers for making me a better student.” — Max Chuang ’23
• “I’m really thankful for teachers here at Exeter, who I can always rely on. I’ve never had such positive relationships with teachers before, and I appreciate all the effort they put into my education. All their hard work, diligence and encouragement really empowers and motivates me.” — Jacqueline Subkhanberdina ’23
• “I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity to take a multitude of courses at Exeter, from a range of topics that I couldn't get at a normal school—especially with teachers that are experienced and actually care about you.” — Val Whitten ’23
• “I’m thankful for being able to be in a community with a lot of inspiring and amazing people who have made a great impact on me.” — Sami Smith ’23
• “Thank you for providing me with a full financial aid grant, providing me with opportunities while my family is homeless back home. You have given me a huge helping hand out of the poverty cycle, and I cannot express in words how grateful I am for this.” — Anonymous