Jake Anderson, ’15

From the desk of Ginger Bell, Director of Family and Alumni Relations:

I recently had a visit with Jake Anderson, ’15.  Jake is now attending the University  of Alabama and says, “Roll Tide”!  When reviewing all Jake had to say about the impact his time at Brook Hill had on his life, I was struck by how much of what he regards as significant was more about character development and striving to reach his potential.  But, of course the academic challenges also helped prepare him for life as a college student.

One of Jake’s favorite memories was being a part of the state champion football team, but there was so much more.  Watching Coach Agnew and Coach Reed and being able to really see the work and dedication that goes into achieving such a goal will forever impact his life. Then there was Mr. Bunger and Mr. Travis and their input in the classroom.  According to Jake’s recollections, Mr. Bunger “nearly failed him in Chemistry” but also spoke truth to him that he needed to get his life together.  Jake then took Mr. Bunger again his senior year, eager to prove that he had done just that!   And, Mr. Travis’ class, definitely known to be challenging, was by far the most interesting and engaging class he had ever taken and helped foster Jake’s love for writing and literature.

What do students need to know to absorb the most from Brook Hill?  According to Jake, they need to do their homework!

As far as faith, Jake believes Brook Hill allowed him to really explore what he believed and why he believed it in a safe environment.  He was encouraged to question things and to reason things out, rather than to have answers fed to him.  That was huge for Jake…being able to search out and clarify just what he believed.

So what did his time at Brook Hill teach him?  Jake says, “Oh man, without Brook Hill I would be absolutely lost at college. I’m not great at being a student, due to disorganization and problems with procrastination, but if I didn’t have at least the foundation of Brook Hill classes I’d be back home by the end of my first year of college, having failed out.”  I truly doubt that, but am proud to hear our kids say that!