Nico, a rising senior at Oliverian School (Oli), is a thoughtful, capable student who needed a supportive environment to help manage anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behavior (OCD). In middle school, he became overwhelmed by perfectionism and schoolwork. By 10th grade, the pressure became so intense that he stopped completing assignments and struggled to get out of bed. After attending an anxiety treatment program, Nico and his family began searching for a non-therapeutic boarding school with built-in emotional and academic support. Oli quickly stood out.

At Oliverian, Nico found a school culture that encourages independence while offering consistent, accessible support.

He describes the community as one where everyone fits in in their own way, and where students and faculty form meaningful, trusting relationships. With small classes, flexible routines, and an understanding approach to mental health, Nico learned to advocate for himself, manage his symptoms, and re-engage with learning on his own terms.

Outside the classroom, Nico has embraced Oliverian’s experiential and student-driven opportunities. He’s gone on multi-day outdoor trips, designed weekend adventures with friends, and rediscovered his love for music. These experiences have helped him rebuild confidence and develop a sense of agency. Nico now feels better equipped to handle the ups and downs of daily life, knowing that balance is something he can create for himself.

Looking ahead, Nico will spend the summer as a raft guide in Washington, D.C., and is excited to return to Oliverian as a senior—more grounded, capable, and future-ready than ever before.