Meet Peter Reid '23

A varsity athlete, history buff, and passionate student leader, Peter Reid ‘23 always knew he wanted to go to boarding school to stretch his independence and experience the joys of living in a close-knit community. We caught up with Peter to learn more about the challenges and rewards of leadership and community living at Govs.

GOVS: 
You were named a dorm proctor this year; what inspired you to pursue this leadership role? 
PETER:
When I first came to Govs, I really looked up to Jack Julian ‘20 and Drake Wheelden ‘20, who were proctors in my dorm during my freshman year. They were all around great guys inside and outside the dorm—they modeled what a good dorm proctor could be and they inspired me.

GOVS:
What are some of the challenges of being a dorm proctor? 
PETER:
I’m in a sophomore dorm with about 30 boys. Since I know many of them from previous school years, I build on those relationships and get to know them better. Relationships are key—the students know and trust us, and they feel comfortable asking for advice or questions they might not otherwise ask an adult. We [proctors] are the first people they see in the morning and the last at night. But there is a balance between honoring their trust and confidence and knowing when we need to involve the adults on campus to help them navigate challenges or lend a helping hand. Part of our role is helping students through tough times and to learn from their mistakes—how to take responsibility and move forward in a positive way. 

GOVS:
What do you find most satisfying about being a proctor?
PETER:
I’m just four months into my role as a proctor, but I’ve formed many great friendships, and I feel I’ve truly helped some kids. We all learn a lot from each other—how to resolve conflicts and make difficult conversations happen. We all need that from each other at some point. I don’t want to let others down, so it helps me grow, too. 

GOVS: 
What has surprised you most about Govs?
PETER:
I’ve always known that I wanted to attend boarding school, even when I was young. But I didn’t realize how much I’d enjoy it! I didn’t know what to expect, but it has been very rewarding. There’s a real sense of community, no matter if you live on campus or off — we’re always together, and there’s no divide between day and boarding students. 

GOVS: 
Are there any teachers, coaches, or dorm parents you look up to at Govs
PETER:
We might have different opinions on things, but I always enjoy talking with Mr. Quigley. I learned so much from him in AP US History class. The same with Mr. Satow—I was really challenged and engaged in his AP US Government and Politics class. My advisor, Mr. McLain, has also helped me finetune my schedule of classes, and he’s a great advisor. Govs students have an incredible support system—it’s an important part of our experience here as students. 

I also look up to my coaches. I play varsity football and golf, and I appreciate the friendships and camaraderie more than just wearing a team uniform. We celebrate the wins and share the disappointment of losses as a team. My coaches have also taught me the importance of preparation and flexibility, and the need to make adjustments as an individual player and as a team. 

The adults in our community guide us in figuring out what we want to do and how to achieve it; we can always rely on this support system. 

GOVS:
What class has challenged you the most at Govs?
PETER:
AP US History with Mr. Quigley and my Junior Thesis were both challenging. Mr. Quigley’s class was hard, but there’s not a class in which I learned more. I learned how to research and write a paper, how to argue a point and ask the right questions. It has been my hardest class but also the most rewarding. I’ve really learned how to prepare!

GOVS:
What are your passions outside the classroom?
PETER:
Along with my team sports, I’m a history buff and I just voted for the first time. I might want to get more involved with public policy down the road.

GOVS:
Do you have a favorite place on campus to spend your free time?
PETER:
The common room of my dorm is a favorite spot—it’s a great way to get to know other guys better. I also like the library for getting homework done and spending time with friends and meeting new people.

GOVS:
What advice would you give to new students?
PETER:
Embrace the idea of independence and seek help when you need it—everyone feels homesick sometimes. Know that others are also facing problems even if they don’t show it—you are never alone. Appreciate the help you receive from others. If you are working on a project, remember that others helped you along the way. You are never the first person to face a challenge. Lean on people who have been there before. One day soon, people will lean on you, too. Remember that you are surrounded by a diverse group of students and it’s up to everyone to foster a sense of community. Participate in events and sit with other people in the dining hall. We are all in this together!