Liam O’Brien ’23

Day Student, Winchester, Massachusetts

Liam O'Brien poses for his headshot during the "Annual Head Tour Guide Photoshoot" outside the Chapel on Sep. 13, 2021. (Photo by Nicholas Pfosi)

What are you involved in at CA?

In the performing arts department, I am involved with the Individual Music Instruction (IMI) program, where I take voice and clarinet lessons. I am also involved in theater productions. Though I originally thought that I wasn’t athletic coming into Freshman year, I joined the skiing, cross country, and sailing teams. I also love CA’s clubs:  I am involved in Woolpack, Cabaret, Self-Care Club, Fantastic Fiction Friday, Playwriting Club, and Active Minds.

Why did you choose CA?

 I chose CA because of its strong, vibrant community. It also placed value on not only academics, but arts as well.

How would you describe common trust?

Common trust is present every day at CA; I would describe common trust as CA’s strongest value. With common trust, there is always an underlying feeling of safety. For example, you know that your items aren’t going to get stolen, and you know that your peers are being academically honorable.

What is the best class you’ve taken at CA and why?

My favorite class I have taken is “Maya, Aztec, Inca,” during my Freshman spring. I loved this course because of the wide variety of topics that it covered. Through the teacher’s unique teaching methods, she made the class interactive, fun, and interesting.

What is on your CA bucket list?

Senior Coffeehouse!

Advice to prospective students?

When I first came to CA, I felt very overwhelmed by everything. You might feel that way too, but know that it will pass! It’s all part of coming to a new place. You will see how strong of a community CA is, and it will soon begin to feel like home. So please keep an open mind when you first come to campus!

Share a moment where you knew you belonged at CA.

I knew that I belonged at CA on the first night of my orientation on campus. I was sitting with a bunch of ninth graders having interesting conversations with tons of different people. I realized that everyone who I was talking to was unique, different, and genuinely kind. At that moment I knew that I belonged at a school where I would be surrounded by kind and interesting people.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Coming to CA was the best decision of my life.