A Statement from Ben R. Callinder

I think the first time I truly realized that I was outside of the prep school bubble and as far away from anything I had ever known, was when I finished my twelve-hour drive to Davidson, NC. I heard country music for the first time, everyone said “y’all”, and everyone displayed his or her own form southern hospitability. As much as the hospitality part was true, I still felt uncomfortable. I was beginning to navigate a completely different lifestyle in a completely different world. In essence, I started to question many of the lessons I learned during my time in Prep for Prep and at Deerfield Academy.

After a rocky first semester, I began the process of finding my voice, centering myself in the ideals that I learned in Prep, and believing in my worth not only to the classroom, but also to the student body as whole. I got involved on the lacrosse team, joined a fraternity, and became a peer health advisor. I selectively targeted things that allowed me to feel like I was truly making the most of my liberal arts education, in addition to allowing me to actively enjoy my life. Since freshman year, I have become even more selective about the activities at Davidson that I engage in. Now, I spend the bulk of my time finding initiatives that allow future Davidson students (maybe a future Prep for Prep Davidson student) to enjoy our beautiful campus.

This is the very reason I ran for student body vice president and campaigned on issues often considered to be taboo. From Title IX to increasing resources for our counseling center to developing a peer-counseling center, I wanted to open dialogue on campus life at Davidson.  Alongside one of my best friends, future student body president, and prep alum Pablo Zevallos, we envision even stronger community—athletically, socially, and academically.

 

I encourage you all to find your voice at your school and live out the prep ideals.