What is life like as a Beaver student? We interviewed several students across all grades—from middle school to senior year—to get a peek into the Beaver student experience. Below you’ll hear from Niamh Peyton ’32—a rising 7th grader. Niamh reflected on her love for Humanities, her experience making friends, and what she’s looking forward to most in the year to come.
Let’s talk about Middle School. You just finished your 6th grade year! What was it like?
My middle school year was amazing. I really enjoyed it and thought it was great because everyone was so kind and friendly. All the teachers were really understanding and helpful.
What was your favorite class?
My favorite class was Humanities because I found the projects and books we read really intriguing and fun to learn about. I really liked the environment, everyone was super kind and everything was always a laugh.
What’s a project you worked on that you really liked and why?
My favorite project was the Harlem Renaissance lesson in Humanities class. I really enjoyed this project because I really liked learning more about the arts in different time periods. My friend and I made a painting based on our experience in 2026 because the person we were researching was an artist who reflected the experience during the Harlem Renaissance.
Something that surprised me about middle school was how supportive everyone was of each other, no matter the grade or age.
Niamh Peyton '32
Tell me about a teacher you really enjoyed. How did they help you grow as a student?
One of my favorite teachers this year was Ms. FitzGerald. She was able to help me with my reading, writing and was really helpful overall. Ms. FitzGerald was able to make all the lessons fun while still teaching us. She is also really kind, she always had snacks in her classroom and would give them to us if we were hungry.
Can you share what it was like making friends during your first year at Beaver?
At first, I thought making friends was going to be really hard but it was surprisingly easy. All I did was go up to people and start a conversation. My favorite thing to do on campus with my friends is play tag during recess.
What are you most excited about in the upcoming year?
I’m really excited for new classes like English and History as well as meeting new students.
Time for some rapid-fire questions!
Favorite class: Humanities
Favorite spot on campus: Bradley Hall
Favorite afternoon activity: Tennis
Favorite Middle School event: Dam Day
Favorite snack: Mini pizza
Favorite lunch: Anything with garlic bread
Favorite recess activity: Tag