A Powerful Reminder of What Makes Hill-Murray Special
Dear Hill-Murray Community,
Last night we hosted hundreds of prospective students and families at our Open House. The highlight for me was hearing from Sebastian, a senior, talk about his time at Hill-Murray. He gave the speech below last night, and I can’t get it out of my mind. He gave me permission to share his words with you – please enjoy!
My name is Sebastian, and I’m proud to be a student here at Hill-Murray. Truthfully, my experience at Hill-Murray has been life-changing.
Before coming here, I had already experienced a lot of transitions. I moved from Kansas City to Minnesota and had attended both a college prep school and a public school along the way. Each environment was different, but I still found myself searching—searching for direction, for purpose, and for a place where I truly fit in.
When I arrived at Hill-Murray, things changed.
With the encouragement of mentors and the freedom to explore new opportunities, I began to find clarity. I discovered what excites me, what motivates me, and ultimately, what I want to pursue.
What stands out most about Hill-Murray is the depth of the education and the strength of the community. The teachers here don’t just teach—they invest in you. The curriculum challenges you to think critically and pushes you to grow. For the first time, I began learning skills in the classroom that genuinely translate to the real world.
But what truly sets Hill-Murray apart is how it encourages students to get involved beyond the classroom.
From clubs to sports, the extracurriculars here are more than just a way to stay busy—they’re a space to grow. For me, being involved in Soccer, DECA, Pioneer Investors, and the National Honor Society has taught me leadership, teamwork, and time management. These experiences helped me uncover my strengths and build confidence in who I am.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned at Hill-Murray is that success isn’t just about grades. It’s about relationships, character, and how you show up in your community. This school has given me the space to try new things, to fail safely, and to grow forward.
And just today, I found out I’ve been accepted to the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Business. As I prepare to take that next step, I can say with full confidence that I’m prepared for what is next. The foundation Hill-Murray gave me—through academics, community, and character-building—is exactly what I’ll carry with me into college and beyond.
So, if you’re considering Hill-Murray, know this: it’s not just a school. It’s a place that shapes the whole person and prepares students for whatever path they choose to follow.
For me, Hill-Murray has been more than a place of learning—it’s been a place of transformation. And truly, a stepping stone to my future.
Every child deserves an experience like Sebastian’s. It’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when a student is surrounded by love and support, challenged to grow, and embraced by the Pioneer Community. This is important to me as President, and it is part of what we do every day at Hill-Murray. Your support is instrumental in ensuring that students and families who want to be part of the Hill-Murray community can do so. If you personally know of a student or a family who would benefit from being part of our community, please forward this email. Click here to connect with our Admissions team, who would love to host them for a tour or a shadow visit. You can also pass along the fact that Hill-Murray offers over $2M in tuition assistance each year, and we are committed to making Hill-Murray affordable to all families. Again, your support is so important and very much appreciated.
Next week, our student leaders are hosting “Trunk or Treat” on October 27 from 4:30 – 6:00 pm in the front parking at Hill-Murray. Ages 12 and under, dress up and come trick or treat with us! I attended last year, and I loved seeing all the fun and creative costumes – lots of happy, smiling children.
Sebastian’s story reminds me how special this community truly is. Hill-Murray changes lives, not just through academics, but through faith, relationships, and opportunity. I’m deeply grateful to be part of a school where transformation happens every single day.
Sincerely,
Melissa Dan, Ed.S.
Hill-Murray School President