Pine Forge Academy is one of four historically Black boarding high schools in America. It is a part of the Seventh-day Adventist education system, located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1946, the land for this institution was purchased by its founders from Thomas Rutter, an iron master and abolitionist. Notable alumni include the late Phife Dawg of Tribe Called Quest, actor Clifton Davis, and University of Idaho professor in the College of Education, Leadership & Counseling, Dr. Sydney Freeman, Jr.
Tyari Perry, freshman at Pine Forge Academy, shares her experience as a freshman at Pine Forge.
My boarding school experience has been like a rollercoaster. Some days you are happy, and some days you are sad. Other days, you love the relief of going back to your dorm, and some days, you wish you were home. But most of all, you change. A lot of times, I would ask older people what high school was like, and a lot of them would say it changes you; you find new friends and meet different people, but I didn’t understand it until I experienced it for myself. Coming to Pine Forge, I realized I was part of something bigger, an experience of a lifetime. On my first day of school, I was nervous and wondered if Pine Forge was for me. Mostly because of the change that came with attending, like living with a roommate and learning how to stay out of the drama that can come with new people getting to know each other while living together, especially freshmen. On top of that, I pondered on the responsibilities I would have to encounter on a different level, like new daily chores, community living, and cleaning up after others. I also thought about what leadership roles I could play.
The thing that helped me love it here was the Black culture; seeing other people who look just like me with big goals and big dreams to do great things, being understood on a cultural level, familiarity, and, of course, the choir! Being in the choir at Pine Forge helps my spiritual life and is a very important part of my experience. When I joined the Pine Forge Academy Choir, I learned the true value of hard work. Some days we spend extra time just to make sure we have our keys and notes precise and coordinated. My choir director works tirelessly so he can bring the best out of our voices. The most rewarding part is seeing the expression on people’s faces during performances when you know you’ve reached a soft spot in their hearts; this gives you the feeling that your hard work has paid off. On Dec. 14, I was able to attend a concert with our Pine Forge Honors Choir at Carnegie Hall in New York City; this was a special and memorable moment.
The most impactful thing here is academics. Pine Forge values true education. I have caring teachers that go out of their way to make sure that I understand my work. Growing up I always struggled with my tests, and I can see a huge improvement since starting here, in scores and in my work. We also have extracurriculars like sports and clubs; I participate in volleyball which is an overall fun and competitive experience. Looking back at the beginning of the year, I can see a mental, spiritual, and physical change in me. Before I found myself always being scared of changes that come with getting older. At the end of the day, I realize change can be for the better or the worst, but it is a part of life. More importantly, I am learning to put God first, not worrying about the past or the future, but focusing on the present.
I often think about what the scripture Jeremiah 29:11 says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”