By: Hana Nguyen & Lilliana Goodman
We know that choosing the right school is about more than just textbooks and tests—it’s about finding a community where students can truly thrive. That’s why we sat down with two of our insightful middle schoolers, Hana Nguyen (6th) and Lilliana Goodman (7th), to give you the honest, student-eye view. In this exclusive blog post, Hana and Lilliana tackle your most pressing questions, from what makes the Menaul community so special to the hands-on learning experiences that define our unique educational approach. Let’s hear directly from them about life, learning, and the tight-knit spirit of Menaul School!
Describe your experience at Menaul School so far.
“My experience at Menaul has been frustrating, joyous, exciting, and so much fun. As a community, the people at Menaul have been so kind and great to the new and old students. Also, the teachers and education have been challenging but a wonderful experience as-well.”
Lilliana Goodman – 7th Grade
“My experience at Menaul School so far has been filled with laughter, frustration, embarrassment, and joy, so in conclusion, both ups and downs. Something I regret doing is letting all the downs in my life bring me down with them. There will always be bad days but think positively because there are a million good days too. I’m glad I have the privilege of my education here at Menaul and I am so grateful for all my friends, who brighten my day with their smiles.”
Hana Nguyen – 6th Grade
If you could teach one of your classes for a day which class would you pick, and why?
“I would pick math, not just because the teacher (Ms. Yee) amazing , but also because I love math. For as long as I could remember, I have loved math. Even though it got harder over the years, I still thought that math was the easiest and my favorite subject. Also, I would pick math because of the teacher Ms. Yee, who has been my favorite ever since we started school. Math now is not just my favorite because I like it, I love it now because of Ms. Yee.”
Lilliana Goodman
“If I could teach one of my classes for a day, I would choose visual arts. In visual arts, the class usually has a chill, quiet atmosphere that I really enjoy. If I were to teach art, then I think I would try to teach anatomy that day because I myself need to learn anatomy.”
Hana Nguyen
What has been your favorite memory from this year so far?
“My favorite memory from this year was at middle school camp when my friends, Ceres, Amora, Lorelei, and I were all laying on separate top bunks throughout our cabin and were tossing around this soft football. Yes, I know this memory doesn’t even sound like a favorite, but that night, the cabin was filled with laughter. When I say that, I mean I was genuinely having the best time, my stomach ached from how hard I was laughing, and I had the biggest grin on my face. I feel like that night completed something in me, it refreshened my soul, and the sound of our giggle reminded me there is still so much more to life and to enjoy your youth to the extent.”
Hana Nguyen
“The expedition week was my favorite memory so far because of the fun and laughter we had in there. The first day was kinda awkward, but after a while, we got to know each other and started to have fun. I also loved working with Hana Nguyen (6th). She was so sweet and even did a bit more on her part when I was getting distracted.”
Lilliana Goodman
What advice would you give to a current 5th grader thinking about coming to Menaul School next year?
“The advice I would give a current 5th grader thinking about coming to Menaul School next year is to take your grades and studying seriously. I would tell them to not procrastinate and develop the skill of self-discipline before it gets hard. Another important thing is to begin studying for finals, which happen in December and May early, not a day before the exam. To add to that, keep your graded papers, notes, assignments, and mostly everything because you will regret tossing them in the recycle.”
Hana Nguyen
I would say that Menaul school has many challenges and moments when its hard, but you should not give up, even though you are done trying. At Menaul, the education is great and quite interesting, but you should study hard to prepare for finals. It does take a moment to get use to a smaller school, new people, and classes, but the people here are incredibly nice and will guide you through everything.
Lilliana Goodman
What are your goals for the Spring semester?
“My goals for the second semester are to get a bit higher in my grades, so even if I go down for semester 2 finals, I will still have an A. To be a bit more involved in school, like going to more events, being there at more games to take pictures, and paying more attention in class even if others are acting up. And, to try my hardest in school, sports, and other curricular activities at Menaul.”
Lilliana Goodman
“My goals for the second half of the school year is to get enough sleep. The only time I do get a lot of sleep is on the weekends, and I believe my lack of sleep affects my schoolwork and focus. Another goal for next semester is to really stay on top of my homework, assignments, projects, etc. I plan to start studying for finals way earlier too, so I can develop confidence and feel less stressed.”
Hana Nguyen