Where SLS Graduates Go
Each year, SLS graduates enroll in a wide range of colleges and universities, places that align with their goals, interests, and values.
Our graduates find the right fit at every type of institution: large public universities like UC Berkeley, Michigan, Georgia, and UT Austin; small liberal arts colleges such as Middlebury, Davidson, and Claremont McKenna; prestigious military academies including West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy; and major private research universities such as Johns Hopkins, Tulane, and the University of Chicago.
- 100% college matriculation
- 150+ different institutions over the past 5 years
- 100% of graduates report feeling prepared for college
Who They Become
Our graduates don’t just head off to college; they take a little Hilltop magic with them.
The poise to raise a hand in a 300-person lecture hall. The clarity to write an argument that makes a professor pause. The instinct to check in on a roommate who’s having a hard week. They show up ready not just to take notes, but to take part.
Meet A Few SLS Graduates
What Families See
Families watch the transformation unfold: students becoming more independent, more articulate, and more driven. Here’s what the parents of some of our recent grads had to say about the journey:
SLS has consistently challenged Brody in meaningful ways. Being surrounded by bright, like-minded peers inspired him to fully engage and strive for excellence. He will leave SLS not only as a confident and capable student, fully prepared for the academic challenges of college, but also as a thoughtful and compassionate person ready to make a positive impact in the world. SLS exceeded our expectations, and we’re deeply grateful to be part of this community.
- Dr. Deena Ebright, mother of Brody '25, Attending Lehigh University
The Ebright family of Stamford: Ryan, Deena, Brody ‘25, and Michael
SLS prepared Camdyn for college academically and athletically. The challenging coursework helped her grow as a student and learn to manage her time effectively. The athletic program helped build her leadership skills, communicate more effectively, and be a positive influence on and off the court. Both our daughters went to SLS and have succeeded beyond our wildest dreams. We feel grateful to be part of the SLS family.
- Drury and Robbie Nelson, parents of Camdyn '25, Attending Syracuse University
The Nelson family of Greenwich: Mackenzie '23, Robbie, Camdyn ‘25, and Drury
SLS has an exceptional ability to nurture each child’s unique interests. Faculty are passionate about their subjects and genuinely invested in every student’s growth and success. Peyton built strong relationships with her teachers, coaches, and advisors and developed the confidence to advocate for herself—skills that will undoubtedly carry over into college and help her continue to flourish.
- Kelly Ambrose, mother of Peyton '25, Attending Boston College
The Ambrose family of Rowayton: Dean '23, Douglas, Peyton ‘25, and Kelly
One of the greatest advantages of SLS has been the ease of access and close relationships with teachers, advisors, and coaches. These relationships accelerated Javier’s integration into the community and the development of his full potential academically and as a student-athlete. All four of our children attended SLS, and each, in their own way, grew in a healthy yet competitive environment that prepared them for the next stage of life.
- Raquel Sicilia de Minuesa, mother of Javier '25, Attending Swarthmore College
The Minuesa family of New Canaan: Jose ‘17, Raquel, Javier ‘25, and Juan
Being at SLS gave Ali the gift of becoming more. She was seen, understood, and encouraged—not just by her advisors, but by so many faculty and staff who truly knew her. They helped her believe she could think deeper, audition for the part, become a Literary Scholar, run for student council, and try something new. Because of those relationships, she’s graduating as the brave, confident, insightful, and compassionate person she is today.
- Liz DeFilippo ‘93, mother of Ali '25, Attending Syracuse University
The DeFilippo family of Bedford: Liz ‘93, Ryan ‘22, Ali ‘25, and Peter
SLS faculty foster an environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and independent learning. Teachers would often meet with Lena and other classmates during off-hours to explore topics that were part of the set curriculum, and also of personal academic interest to the students. The SLS core curriculum, as well as the encouragement to explore more advanced topics, has provided a lifelong love of learning and a solid foundation for the rigors of college.
- Michele and Greg Olbrys, parents of Lena '25, Attending Johns Hopkins University
SLS Valedictorian and Ridgefield resident Lena Olbrys and her family: Cailin ‘27, Michele, and Greg
SLS is for Life
When you graduate from SLS, it's not goodbye, it's more like 'see you soon'.
SLS alumni love coming back to the Hilltop to reconnect with teachers who've become their friends. SLS grads stay close during and after college, sharing apartments, travelling, connecting professionally, and even getting married.
See How It Starts
Everything our graduates achieve begins with the experience they have here. Ready to see the Hilltop in action?
