Meet Colette, a student at Holden High School, Orinda, CA

Meet Colette, a student at
Holden High School

Each quarter, we feature a Holden High School student. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Colette, a student at Holden High School! Read on to discover how joining our small, caring community gave her the confidence to pursue college after graduation.

What grade are you in?

“I’m a junior!”

What is it like attending such a small school?

“It’s like being at summer camp, but with learning. I really like it. It lets me get to know everyone. Feels like a family.”

What was school like before you began attending Holden?

“I went to a small private middle school, and when I graduated, I wanted to see what it was like to go to a big school. So, I started going to a local public high school with over 3,000 kids!

I hated it. There were fights almost weekly, I was constantly stressed out, and my teachers didn’t seem to care about me. I missed being in a small environment and knew I wanted a change.”

Why did you choose Holden?

“As soon as I came in for a tour, I knew I wanted to be here. It just felt right. I loved the super small campus and meeting Kristin [Holden’s Admissions Director]. When she explained that Holden is the right school for kids who want real, meaningful relationships with their teachers, I knew that that was what I wanted. Everything she described is what I get here at Holden.”

How has Holden impacted your life?

“I’m a better person now, and I’m more prepared for college. Before I came to Holden, I was super anxious. My weekly RES [counseling] sessions at Holden have helped lower my anxiety. I have a therapist I see outside of school, but I love that most of the counselors at Holden are younger. They are more relatable. They give me some good tools to deal with my anxiety.”

What are your plans for your life after high school?

“Because of Holden, I definitely want to go to a 4-year college, but I might start at a 2-year college and then transfer. After college (and maybe even during), I’d love to work as an artist or a model.”

We invite you to discover if our unique, vibrant school would be a good fit for you. Scheduling a tour is a great way to experience Holden. Small group tours are limited to 3 families or less per group during school hours. Proof of vaccination is required.