The Hill School is, once again, taking on virtual learning, but this time, with a slightly different approach: H-Term. For six weeks, H-Term will take the place of traditional online classes by presenting students, back at home or on campus, with the opportunity to take courses that delve into specific topics or do an independent study, in which students can study topics of their choice under the supervision of a faculty advisor. 

“We just finished our first two weeks about the history of Hill, run by Mr. Jeffries. It was really informative, and I found it extremely interesting to see pictures and learn the history of the school and the town around it,” said Anders Mortenson ’24 who is taking in the course “Whatsoever Things are Home,” a class on Hill history and the Pottstown community.  

As an athlete, Mortenson dedicates his time with the squash team under the low residency program, a program in which winter varsity athletes are allowed back on campus in order to train with the rest of their team. 

“I’m excited to be living on campus and doing a combination of squash training, strength training, and team-building activities. I’m especially excited to compete in matches later in the winter,” Mortenson said.

While some students distribute their time between athletic training and H-Term courses, some students, like Carolyn McNay ’23, decided to further explore their interest through independent study. McNay is conducting an independent research project on American neutrality and isolationism to further her interest in history, especially on the role that America has played in world affairs throughout its time as a nation, and she will conclude her project with a research paper. 

“Essentially, my project is about deconstructing the changing role that the United States has had on the world since it gained power. Economically, politically, socially, it’s really interesting to see what an impact America has had on the rest of the world.” 

On top of this, McNay is also kept busy by Eudemonia classes and piano practices. She takes Eudemonia three times a week, and residing in California, she must deal with a time difference of three hours, waking up at six in the morning to attend. She has also been regularly practicing the piano in preparation for upcoming music exams. To balance her many responsibilities, McNay emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and having a good sense of time management. 

“I try to use a planner to keep me on track, and I usually aim to finish all of my homework by Monday or Tuesday so that I have time over the rest of the week to work on other things.”

Despite their busy schedules, both Mortenson and McNay expressed that they were happy to be given the time to explore interests outside of traditional schoolwork, whether that be in athletic, musical, or academic pursuits.