PREP 9 Alumni Panel Inspires Our Preparatory Component Scholars

On Saturday, March 15, Prep for Prep hosted “PREP 9 Alumni Connect,” inspiring annual panel discussions where former program participants share their experiences and insights with current Preparatory Component students and their families. This year’s panel, composed of accomplished professionals and a college student, provided a candid discussion about the challenges and rewards of the PREP 9 program, which prepares students for placement at boarding schools in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

The event kicked off with introductions, where alumni shared their educational paths and career achievements. Jonathan Fgueroa (P9 XV/Andover ’06, Harvard ’10) MBA, NYU ’15, spoke about his transition from public school to boarding school. Reflecting on the PREP 9 experience, he described it as intense, but vital, emphasizing that the program instilled a work ethic that has proved essential throughout his career.

Ryan Chapoteau (P9 XIII/Andover ’04, Muhlenberg ’08) JD, Boston Univ. ’11, a first-generation Haitian-American from Queens, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the program's structure and high expectations pushed him beyond his limits. "One of the unofficial mottos you'll hear from Prep alumni is it's the best thing in your life that you never want to do again," he quipped, referencing the program's academic rigor and demanding schedule.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the power of resilience. Alumni shared personal stories of struggling through the demanding coursework, particularly in subjects where they initially lacked confidence. Ryan recounted reading Great Expectations and writing a paper based on the book. Writing was a struggle for him and he got a C on the assignment. “I was absolutely heartbroken,” he said. “Prep for Prep taught me how to face adversity. You’re not always going to do well in class and that’s okay. The important part is that you get back up after you fall.” 

The conversation also touched on imposter syndrome, a common experience among students transitioning from under-resourced schools to elite academic environments. Etzerson "Ettie" Philitas (P9 XII/Andover '03, Princeton '07) MBA, Penn '13 described his realization that seeking help was not a sign of weakness but rather a tool for success. "Prep taught me to raise my hand when I felt like I needed to be a little more prepared,” he said. 

The discussion took an emotional turn when alumni reflected on the lifelong bonds formed during their time in PREP 9. "The godmother of my second child was sitting right beside me in Prep…. One of the best men in my wedding was also sitting right beside me in Prep. As you look left and right, you have a ton of opportunities for bonds," Ettie shared. The connections formed during the program, they emphasized, are not just academic but deeply personal and lasting.

Panelists also addressed the reality of navigating predominantly white institutions and professional spaces as students and professionals of color. “Understanding and the self discovery of knowing that you belong is huge,” said Tanique Dunkley (P9 III/Lawrenceville '94, Univ. of Virginia '98). “You step on these campuses and it’s like a country club. It’s natural to question: Do I belong here? How do I fit in here? What is my role here? And I think it’s beautiful to have the alumni to see that. If I could go back to 14-year-old me and say ‘Every place you go, you belong’, it would have helped me. ”

The event concluded with words of encouragement for the current cohort. Panelists urged students to remain open to opportunities, embrace challenges, and trust the process. And they gave the following advice: 

“Be yourselves,” said Ettie. 

“Be comfortable in your skin and with who you are,” said Jonathan. “No one can take that away from you.” 

“You not only represent you, you represent Prep” said Ryan. “You represent a lot of people behind you so make sure that what you do reflects positively upon the organization, your family, and your culture in the new areas that you’re going to.” 

“Vulnerability is power,” said Tanique.

“Learn to be your own biggest supporter and your own best friend for when there is no one else around to do it,” said Allie. 

The students were grateful to receive wisdom from those who had walked the same path before them. The panel served as a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of PREP 9—not just as an academic stepping stone, but as a lifelong community of support, excellence, and perseverance.

We are so grateful for the following alumni who gave their time to speak to our growing community: