George Long '13

Newtown, Pennsylvania
Boarding Student 

 
“The people at George School believe the world can be better and society can be different. By coming to George School, I knew that I would be able to make the world a better, kinder place after I left.”





Can you describe a moment in class that had a profound impact on you?

Four times a week I walk to the second floor of the library for Faith Traditions, taught by Tom Hoopes. I have never had a true religion class before, and I really enjoy learning about different cultures and religious beliefs. Tom is an awesome teacher who makes class fun.

Tom asks questions to spark our deeper thoughts. One day the question was, “When you do not think good and when you do not think not-good, what is your true self?” Deep in the study of Buddhism, I realized there was no answer to this question, for it was a kōan.

I started to say some complex thought but realized that I needed to stop acting and just say what I think. So I paused and said that I am still trying to find my true self, but that this sort of question helps me do that. I have been told that it is natural in high school not to know who I am and that I am not expected to be perfect. But I do know I need to follow my instincts and values in my everyday life.

This is George School. There are many moments when I get this feeling of peace and knowledge, and when I come closer to finding the real me.


More about George:

George has played saxophone for years and loves being part of the GS orchestra. Though he also plays football and basketball, he considers baseball his favorite sport.