Testimonials

Since we started the Field Academy, we have connected with dozens of students, families, community partners, and teachers. Their stories and experiences are what inspire us to continue offering these programs.  Here's what Field Academy students, parents, faculty, and partners are saying about their experience with the school:

“Ever since the Field Academy I've been looking for new experiences and following up on them.  The people in my life have grown ever more important and the value of good teachers and peer members has become of the utmost importance to me.  The Field Academy taught me how to find an education, not get one.”
-Sophie (student), Massachusetts

“I will never look at education the same after the Field Academy.”
-Laura (student), California

“The Field Academy reignited and encouraged my natural desire to learn.  While I've always been a proponent of experiential learning, I've never had such genuine education outside the classroom. There's something different about being there – in a place, where something happened or is happening. Whether you're learning history, art, politics, or economics… it doesn't matter, because learning in the field has no alternative. It is important to be there... What I really learned from the Field Academy is the importance of real, genuine human connection, and its enduring power to transform lives, resolve conflicts, and ultimately, make life and learning indistinguishable. Thank you, Field Academy.”
-Jaxson (student), Canada

“This summer I learned the importance of understanding different perspectives. I learned how to hip-hop dance, and through that process I learned how to laugh at myself. But most importantly, I learned how to make connections with wonderfully funny and intelligent students, inspiring teachers, and (friendly) strangers we met along the way, and that when you form a community you can have a great impact on each other and on other communities.” 
-Jenna (intern), Washington

“This education feels real.”
-Sheila (student), Massachusetts

“At The Field Academy, I was always reminded that there is a bigger world out there, and while I am living in my own world someone else is living in theirs in a completely different way.  I got to peek inside the world of lobstermen, the Penobscot, Appalachian Trail hikers, farmers, and city-dwellers.  I gained so much insight into the vastly different ways people perceive the world around them.  All of this has inspired me to continue to travel and learn more.”
-Nyrobi (student), North Carolina

“Luke wouldn’t have been able to stand up in front of a group of his peers and give that speech two years ago.    You all deserve a lot of credit.” 
- Luke’s dad, Virginia

“Before the Field Academy, I was shy and nervous. I knew that I cared about my education, but I wasn't sure how to manifest it into a reality. And, right before I came to the Field Academy, I made a choice to change schools and start my sophomore year at brand-new school.  As the new year started, I assumed a leadership role by getting elected to student government and liking it so much that I participated both semesters of sophomore year. At the end of the year, I was chosen by students and faculty to receive the "Navigator Award." This award ‘is given to one boy and one girl who, in the opinion of classmates and faculty, embody leadership, a positive attitude and exemplary conduct.’  I also got involved with the Elizabeth Warren campaign and was recently able to meet her!  I would not have been able to do any of this without the Field Academy.  They made me confident in my ideas, gave me a willingness to reach out to people, and taught me to go with my gut."
-Gabi (student), Massachusetts

“I can see my son making choices now that he learned from you guys. You taught him two fundamental things: 1) To take care of the environment, and 2) the importance of people.  You guys gave hope to these kids. You made my son believe that he can make a difference and change the world around him, if that’s what he wants.”  
-Saira (parent), Rhode Island

“You know those monotone speakers who always talk and not always let other speak? No such thing exists at this program.  The instructors I’ve been with have been incredible, and enthusiastic about even the smallest things.  They are there for you when you’re concerned or worried, and hilarious at times.  They’re some of the greatest friends I have.”
-Frida (student), California

 “The teaching is EXCELLENT.  I’ve learned more on this trip than I have my freshman year...these teachers just know which questions to ask.”
-Molly (student), Maine

“Seeing the Field Academy come to life this summer, I learned that effecting tangible change is truly possible. In the short week I spent...with the Field Academy, I was reminded of the possibility and hope for the future. The passion and brilliance of motivated teenagers guided by talented and committed educators can only result in something amazing!” 
-Paddy (guest faculty), New Hampshire

“I learned that catching a sheep is laughably difficult.  I learned that the idea of citizenship can have multiple definitions, elicit passionate responses, and inspire remarkable imagination.  I learned that lobsters carry their hearts on their backs and their spines along their bellies.  I learned that bringing together a group of students from all over the country, from drastically different backgrounds, is one of the most brilliant and powerful ways to have those students consider who they are and what comprises the country in which they live. I learned that there is only one parking lot in Harvard Square that will fit a 15-passenger van.  I learned that it is possible to turn an idea into a reality, and that process is made infinitely better when students are part of it.” 
-Claire (faculty), Maine