A four-year senior from Hancock, New Hampshire, Will Callif came to New Hampton School determined to make the most of his experience and broaden his global perspective. The beginning of his junior year coincided with the first year of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at NHS, and Will has emerged as a more thoughtful student because of his experience.
Why did you pursue the IB Program?
Why not?’ I’ve been given an opportunity to take a class that is so much about global citizenship, which is part of our school mission. It’s above and beyond and AP class because you’re driven to teach yourself and that’s what you’re going to have to do in college your freshman year. Professors don’t hold your hands. Before the IB I was someone who would look at the notes I got in class and learn them, but now I’m someone who creates his own notes—things I find interesting—and then I apply them. I’ve taught myself to learn in way that fits me and best prepares me for college.
What is your favorite IB Class?
IB Biology. I get to design labs like a real scientist would. It’s evolution all the way to molecular biology, so I have a chance to see the whole field. And it’s something I’m thinking about pursuing in college. I think it’s great preparation.
Who is a Teacher who has had a huge impact on you here?
Mr. Redman was so enthralled in the subject of English and so passionate about it, so it rubbed off on me. Coming out of middle school into Freshmen English Honors, we jumped into the Odyssey, which is a pretty heavy read for your freshman year. We read the whole thing. And we read a lot of Shakespeare. It was something new to me and different from a public middle school in Southern New Hampshire where I had never heard of the Odyssey before. I never thought of myself as a writer or loving to write, but I’ve learned to love writing essays for my English classes.
What are your goals for senior year?
I want to work as hard as possible and feel like I’ve taken advantage of the opportunity I’ve been given to come to New Hampton School. I want to try as many new things as possible. I’m going to try running cross country next year and I’m thinking about doing a play.
Four-year senior from Hancock, New Hampshire
Football, Cross Country, JV Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Class President Sophomore Year, International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate, Bruce Paro JV Athlete Award, Presidential Service Award, Two-time IB Student of the Month