Revisit Day: Creating Lasting Connections and Memories

Reflecting on our successful Revisit Day and suggesting improvements for the future

Photo by Middlesex School

Do you still remember the day when you, an accepted and prospective Middlesex student, first took step onto our campus? Do you remember your heart fluttering with anticipation and the nerves that accompany the promise of a new journey? As the hallways reverberated with the sound of fresh footsteps, Revisit Day, impervious to the capricious weather, extended a warm embrace to accepted students, showcasing the magic that pervades Middlesex. 

Opinions on Revisit Day vary among students. Some regard it as an opportunity for fun and camaraderie, a chance to show off the vivacious ethos of our community. Conversely, others may perceive it as somewhat stressful, feeling the weight of representing the best of our community to prospective students on their shoulders. Striking up a good conversation with a person you’ve just met is a difficult task, and even harder to do when you have to focus on class at the same time. Reflecting on her experience, Celine Ding ‘27 remarked, “Personally, I find Revisit Day to be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. It's exciting to meet potential new members of our community, but there's also pressure to showcase Middlesex in the best light possible."

From the glorious chapel performances to the delightful Freedom of Speech (FOS) performances and the enticing Whoopie Pie truck, these meticulously planned activities constituted the highlights of Revisit Day. As a member of the chamber orchestra, I thoroughly enjoyed performing along with Small Chorus for new students and their parents in the chapel. Both FOS and the chapel gathering were wonderful opportunities to showcase the musical talents of Middlesex students. And of course, who can resist the allure of the Whoopie Pie truck, a delectable treat to sweeten up the day?

Though our Revisit Day this year was undeniably successful as always, there remain discernable avenues for improvement that we can adopt to perpetuate these two days as a forever memorable event for prospective students. Given the limitations of our dining hall, which regrettably cannot accommodate over four hundred students at a time, lunch was extremely crowded. Setting up multiple locations for lunch can be a possible solution, especially since it is the only time when hosts and visitors can sit down with different people to get to know each other in-depth and chat at length about student life here. Despite not being paired up with a Revisit Day person, I got to know numerous potential students over lunch.

Furthermore, I acknowledge our school’s commitment to portraying Middlesex School life authentically, but I suggest that we incorporate more student activities instead of merely walking through a day of classes. The quality of Revisit Day heavily depends on the energy of students and their willingness to engage with visitors, but having four classes in a row dampens the spirit of Middlesex students. In fact, many who revisited last year recollect spending time with their hosts and touring the campus with them, while the specifics of classroom experiences often fade into oblivion. What truly distinguishes us is not only our classes but also our vibrant and supportive community. Therefore, by hosting more activities, Middlesex can help guests gain insight into what our school is really like and facilitate genuine connections with students here. 

Revisit Day helps to prove why Middlesex stands out from other schools and is the perfect fit for students accepted here. It is a chance to exhibit our welcoming community and diverse talents, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend. Let us ensure that Revisit Day continues to be the quintessential catalyst that persuades prospective students to say yes to MX!

Jessica Wu