REVIEW OF Holy Trinity School BY Alum, Esha Sharma

(5) Overall Experience

My overall experience at Holy Trinity School was truly amazing. From the faculty to the opportunities to the environment, everything about HTS helped shape me into the person I am today. This school played a fundamental role in helping me become the leader I am—one who leads with love, determination, hard work, and grace. I was constantly inspired by the faculty around me, learning not just from their expertise but from their light-hearted, kind, and diligent nature. What stands out most in my mind is how every member of the community genuinely cared about one another’s growth and well-being. I always felt supported, encouraged, and pushed to grow in every area—academically, extracurricularly, socially, and emotionally. While the transition from high school to university naturally brings an academic jump, I found that the time management skills, strong values, and foundation I gained at HTS served me incredibly well. After completing my first year at UC Berkeley, I can proudly say that HTS has more than prepared me for the demands of university and beyond. If I could change one thing, it would be to include personal financial management coaching, whether through a program or integrated into our learning in some way. As my peers and I transitioned into “real life,” especially with things like budgeting, taxes, and managing expenses, I realized how valuable that kind of practical knowledge would have been. I understand that it’s not typically part of most high school curricula, but I believe HTS has the capacity to lead in this area, the same way it leads in so many others. A prospective student enrolling at Holy Trinity School can expect to join a community where everyone—students, teachers, and staff—cares deeply about one another’s success and happiness. You’ll find endless opportunities to discover what excites you, both in and out of the classroom. Whether it’s through dance, sports, student government, theatre, or technology, HTS provides the environment, support, and facilities to help young minds thrive.

(5) School Leadership

Reflecting back on my time at Holy Trinity School, what stands out most about the school leadership and administration is their deep care for students and their consistent effort to do what was best for the community. I had the privilege of holding several leadership roles during my time at HTS, which meant I was able to work closely and personally with the administration. Through this, I gained a unique perspective on how decisions were made and how issues were handled. I saw firsthand the level of thought, empathy, and integrity they brought to every situation. The administration always led with a student-first mindset. Whether it was supporting student-led initiatives, responding to concerns, or handling challenges within the school, they approached everything with care and intention. Their leadership instilled confidence within the student community because we knew they listened, they understood, and they took action with fairness. My peers and I had the utmost respect for the school leadership because they respected us. Respect is a two-way street at HTS, and our relationships with the administration consistently reflected that. They made themselves approachable, communicated transparently, and were always open to feedback. They handled discipline issues in a way that was firm but never demeaning, always aiming to teach rather than simply punish. The leadership at HTS played a huge role in creating the positive, inclusive, and supportive school environment I was lucky to be a part of. Their example shaped not only how I view leadership but how I strive to lead in my own life: with honesty, care, integrity, and mutual respect; all values a part of the HTS character creed.

(5) Teaching

The teaching at Holy Trinity School is truly exceptional. The faculty is deeply knowledgeable in their subject areas, but what really makes them stand out is how much they care. Not just about what they teach, but about who they’re teaching. Now that I’m an alum, every time I return to visit, I find myself saying hi to every teacher in the building I see. Even those who never directly taught me were familiar faces who said good morning in the hallways and made me feel seen and valued. The dynamic between teachers and students at HTS strikes a beautiful balance between professionalism and genuine warmth. Teachers held high expectations and pushed us to be the best versions of ourselves, but they also treated us like different individuals with unique strengths and opportunities. Many of my teachers became mentors and even friends. They are people I could go to for advice, a reality check, or a bit of encouragement when I needed it most. They told me the hard truths when I needed to hear them, but they always did in a way that helped me grow. You can feel how much the teachers at HTS love what they do. It’s visible, it’s infectious, and it’s a huge part of what made me excited to be at school every day. They communicated clearly, offered thoughtful feedback, and were always available to help. They helped me develop a love of learning. They never let me settle; they challenged me to push past “good enough” and reach for something better. While I definitely have a few favorite teachers who left a lasting impact on both my academic and personal development, I can honestly say that there isn’t a single teacher at HTS whom I couldn’t reach out to today and receive a thoughtful, caring response. That’s simply just who they are. The teachers at HTS are more than just instructors—they are mentors, motivators, and role models. They’re a big reason why this school feels like such a special place in my heart.

(5) Academics

The academic program at Holy Trinity School is rigorous, thoughtful, and incredibly well-rounded. One of its greatest strengths is the way it challenges students to think critically and push themselves while also offering a strong support system. The curriculum is designed to develop not just academic skills, but life skills: time management, organization, communication, and resilience. These are the very things that have helped me thrive in university, especially now as a student at UC Berkeley. That said, like with any private or public high school, there is a gap between high school and university. HTS never pretended otherwise. In fact, the teachers were very honest about it. They made it clear that the transition wouldn’t be easy, and rather than shielding us from that reality, they prepared us to meet it head-on. From the way we were taught to manage our workload to the expectations around independent thinking, I felt like I knew what was coming—and more importantly, I was equipped to handle it. The academic culture at HTS was competitive but never counterproductive. Students were serious about their goals, but there was a spirit of collaboration rather than cutthroat competition. We worked together, helped each other study, and shared resources. It was a community of learners, and that atmosphere made the pressure manageable and the learning more enjoyable. While no school can make the university transition completely seamless, HTS gave me the mindset, tools, and confidence to grow into it.

(5) Extracurriculars

The extracurricular program at Holy Trinity School was one of the most defining parts of my high school experience. There were so many opportunities to get involved, whether you were looking to compete, develop leadership skills, or have fun and try something new. I was heavily involved in a wide range of activities—from dance, sports, and student leadership, to theatre and community service—and each one gave me something unique. I was captain of both the dance and basketball teams, which helped me grow not only in skill but in confidence, collaboration, and responsibility. I also received awards for dedication and sportsmanship, which reflected how much those programs shaped me as a person. I served as the leadership prefect and chaired student guild meetings, working closely with all the school’s clubs and committees. That gave me invaluable experience in organization, event planning, and public speaking, all skills I still use today. I was head stage manager for our school plays for two years, which gave me a behind-the-scenes perspective on the arts and helped me develop a different kind of leadership—one rooted in attention to detail, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. I also founded and led initiatives around mental health and inclusivity, including organizing the school’s first men's mental health seminar and planning a color run, and being a vendor in a farmers market for a non-profit I was head of operations for. What stood out most about extracurriculars at HTS was the balance. Yes, there were competitive opportunities if you wanted to aim high, but there were also low-pressure, student-led options for people who wanted to explore new interests. The atmosphere was encouraging, not exclusive. Students were celebrated for trying new things, not just for excelling in them. Teachers and faculty were incredibly supportive, and they made sure we had the resources we needed to turn ideas into action. Overall, HTS did an amazing job developing well-rounded students. I never felt like I had to choose between academics and extracurriculars—instead, they worked together to shape me into someone who could lead, collaborate, and think creatively both inside and outside the classroom. The skills and confidence I gained through extracurricular involvement at HTS are still some of the most valuable things I carry with me today.

(5) Students

The student body at Holy Trinity School was close-knit, spirited, inclusive, and diverse in more ways than one. Our grade wasn’t huge, which made it easier to really get to know people beyond surface-level interactions. Looking back, what stands out to me most is how genuine the overall atmosphere was. Of course, like at any school, there were students who were considered more “popular,” but what made HTS different was that popularity didn’t come at the expense of others. The people who were most respected were the ones who could connect with everyone, regardless of social status, background, or interests. The typical HTS student was involved, hardworking, and values-driven, but there was definitely a wide range. Some students leaned more into athletics, others into the arts, academics, tech, or leadership. There was space for all of us to find our place and grow in our own way. What united us were our shared HTS competencies: communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, character, and citizenship. HTS students cared about each other and about making a difference, and I think that’s something the school really nurtured.

(5) School Life

The overall quality of student life at Holy Trinity School was exceptional. I truly loved going to school there. It was a place where I felt seen, supported, and challenged in the best possible ways. What contributed most to my quality of life at HTS was the balance the school struck between academics, extracurriculars, and community. The environment was structured and goal-oriented, but also warm and welcoming—it created space for students to strive and succeed while still feeling safe and valued. There was a genuine sense of belonging across the school. Teachers and staff knew us by name. Our successes were celebrated, our setbacks supported, and our voices heard. Whether it was walking into the building and being greeted with a smile, participating in spirit days, or simply having friends and mentors I could count on, there was something special about the everyday life at HTS. That said, like any school with high standards, there were moments of stress. Students were generally driven and passionate, which sometimes meant juggling academics, leadership roles, sports, and arts could be overwhelming. But the school also made an effort to address wellness and balance. From what I observed, most students were happy to be there. Yes, there were stressful periods—especially around exams or applications—but overall, people were engaged, involved, and motivated. HTS students took pride in their school, and our school took pride in us. That spirit was visible in everything from house competitions and assemblies to performances and interschool competitions. HTS is a place where hard work meets heart, and where students come out not only well-prepared but deeply connected to a community that shaped who they are.

(5) Community

From my earliest days there, it was clear that parents were invited to be a part of the school community in meaningful ways, whether through events, the parents' guild, volunteering, or simply being present in their child’s educational journey. There was a strong sense of partnership between the school and families, which created a really positive atmosphere. Since graduating, I’ve continued to feel connected to HTS through the alumni community. Even as we’ve all gone our separate ways—different cities, universities, and countries—I’ve kept in touch with many of my classmates. Some are close friends, others I reconnect with now and then, but the bond we built at HTS doesn’t just disappear after graduation. Whether it’s a quick check-in, attending alumni events, or seeing familiar faces when I visit the school, there’s a lasting sense of belonging. The school also does a great job of continuing to welcome alumni back. Every time I walk through those doors, it still feels like home. Teachers and staff remember me, ask me how I’m doing, and genuinely care about where life has taken me. That ongoing relationship speaks volumes about the kind of community HTS has built—it doesn’t just end at graduation.

(5) School Location

While HTS definitely offers a full and vibrant experience within its own walls, it never felt like an isolated island. During my time there, especially in Grade 12, students were allowed to leave campus for lunch, which gave us a bit of independence and the chance to explore the nearby area with friends. It was a privilege we valued and respected. The school also made a conscious effort to connect with the broader community. For example, there were supervised volunteering opportunities like cleaning up Bayview or participating in local initiatives, which helped students engage beyond the classroom and contribute meaningfully to the neighbourhood. These moments not only strengthened our sense of responsibility but also reminded us that we were part of a larger community beyond just the school. I’d say that HTS is located in a neighbourhood that complements its values—safe and community-driven. The school finds a great balance between providing a strong internal culture and encouraging students to step out into the world around them in intentional and age-appropriate ways.

(5) Admissions

I don’t remember a whole lot from when I applied to Holy Trinity School, since I was quite young at the time, but I do remember having to take an entrance exam and feeling really stressed about it. I was never the best at standardized testing, and the pressure of it definitely got to me. What really helped, though, was the way the admissions representatives made me feel comfortable throughout the test and the interview. They were incredibly calm, kind, and reassuring. Even if the assessment process was important, they made it feel less intimidating to help me stay calm and grounded. If I had to give advice to someone applying now, I’d say don’t focus too much on being the “perfect” academic candidate. I wouldn’t have classified myself as especially smart back then, but HTS saw more than just test scores. They saw potential, and they helped me grow into the person I am today. With their nurturing environment, I’ve gone further than I ever imagined—now studying at UC Berkeley. HTS is a place that brings out the best in its students, and sometimes all a child needs is the right environment to thrive. So if you're applying, be honest, be yourself, and know that you're being welcomed into a community that wants to help you grow.

(4.5) University placement and counselling

The university counselling program at Holy Trinity School is incredibly supportive and well-structured. One of the things I appreciated most was how proactive the team was in bringing in a wide range of guest speakers and university representatives to give students the best possible insight into the post-secondary process. Even if the counsellors didn’t always have the answers right away, they always made the effort to find out—and that dedication really stood out to me. There were mandatory university sessions and one-on-one time with counsellors built into our schedule that helped guide us through everything from researching programs to crafting applications to making final decisions. These sessions ensured that every student received the foundational knowledge and tools they needed, no matter what stage they were at in the process. I especially loved the university fairs HTS hosted, where representatives came from all over the world, and speaking with them directly helped me broaden my perspective. It was actually at one of those fairs that I first seriously considered applying to UC Berkeley. I ended up deciding to apply to Berkeley just two weeks before the deadline, and even though it was last minute, my counsellor supported me in every single way she possibly could. From helping me finalize my essays to gathering transcripts and navigating the international application process, she made herself available and ensured I felt confident, calm, and equipped even under the time pressure. If there’s one area where there could have been more support, it might be in personalizing the process even more, especially for students applying to non-traditional or international schools. But overall, I was given the guidance I needed early enough to apply successfully to my top-choice programs. HTS’s university counselling program fosters a culture of curiosity, encouragement, and self-discovery. It gave me both the confidence and clarity I needed during such a major life decision, and for that, I’m deeply grateful.