Self and Spirit: Explorations at Lawrenceville

          In the vibrant tapestry of the Lawrenceville School's campus offerings, Explorations play a vital part in helping busy Lawrentians tap into their spirituality by taking a break from classroom worries. Students are required to attend at least two Explorations each term, and at least one before interims.

          As a prominent group on campus, the Religious Life Council, or RLC, plays a pivotal role in designing the School’s Exploration opportunities. Student leader Sameer Menghani ’24 explains that the Council’s responsibility lies in showcasing the diversity in “different religions and experiences of individuals.” Similarly, fellow council member Nitza Kahlon ’25 added that “the RLC is supposed to be representative of…the whole student body.” In the past, the RLC was directly involved with the Explorations Council, which has temporarily been put on pause this year. Now, the RLC works to “provide students with a platform [to create] their own Explorations,” along with working on “[the RLC’s] own initiatives,” such as the “What Matters to Me and Why” series that features individual faculty member’s stories and advice. 

          Both student leaders conveyed that an Exploration should diversify the way Lawrentians approach spirituality, Menghani specifically expressing that Explorations should help students to “look inward.” His personal experience attending the programs has helped him “consider a lot more things [he] would not otherwise find [himself] doing.” On the other hand, Kahlon’s stance on Explorations has changed drastically; from being apprehensive about attending a required event, to eagerly participating in discussions with the RLC. 

          From the well-being end of the wide Explorations spectrum, Student Council’s Wellness Representative Cassie Dillard ’24 is also involved with the creation of new Exploration topics. Her process includes meeting with the Wellness Council to gather feedback from a “large variety of people on campus,” then bringing these ideas to the Wellness Committee, Office of Multicultural Affairs, and various student-led affinity and spirituality groups. On upcoming Exploration themes, Dillard expressed how students are hoping for events where they can “take time for [themselves]...and slow down.” Dillard also hopes that Explorations can be opened up from spiritual gatherings to the broader range of  “good, healthy practices,” such as learning when to “step back and slow down.” 

        After a few years at Lawrenceville, these three student leaders have amassed a few favorite Explorations to attend. Both Menghani and Dillard have a preference for student-led events, with Dillard especially gravitating towards “Senior Stories,” which has helped her “get to know a lot of [her] peers better.” Kahlon, a dedicated member of the RLC, deeply appreciates the Explorations hosted by the Council, as well as a Lawrenceville classic; “Lessons and Carols.”

        While Explorations are designed for students to enjoy, some Lawrentians occasionally fall behind on their required credits—leading to the designated repercussion of attending a Saturday night detention. Menghani revealed that discussions have taken place about a reflective assignment or attending a less “enjoyable” Exploration. He believes that a clear consequence is needed, but students should take the responsibility to “step up.” As a senior and leader on campus, Menghani encourages fellow students to attend as many Explorations as possible—recognizing them as a valuable opportunity to “make the most of [Lawrenceville’s] resources.” Ultimately, the events are held as an opportunity for students to conduct introspective thinking in pursuit of personal growth and self-discovery.