- Esref Erkman’s journey from Philadelphia to Millbrook highlights his commitment to education and hockey.
- The influence of Coach Sorriento and Millbrook’s hockey program on Erkman’s decision to attend the school.
- The importance of the school zoo in providing unique educational and community service opportunities.
- The impact of campus culture and community engagement at Millbrook.
- The role of hands-on experience in wildlife management at Millbrook’s zoo as part of the curriculum.
Esref Erkman’s journey from Philadelphia to Millbrook School exemplifies a young man’s dedication to both his education and his passion for hockey. Enrolling in the class of 2027, Esref brings with him a rich background from The Haverford School. His decision to pursue his high school years at Millbrook was not made lightly; it was influenced by specific factors that appealed deeply to him. Chief among these was the influence of Coach Sorriento and Millbrook’s esteemed hockey program.
Esref credits Coach Sorriento’s honesty and straightforward communication style as pivotal in his decision to move to Millbrook. For a developing player, a coach who genuinely cares about both personal and athletic growth is invaluable. Esref is a defenseman, a position he has developed through over a decade on the ice. His dedication to hockey has undeniably shaped his secondary school experience, anchoring his time at Millbrook as both educational and formative.
While the allure of a strong athletic program brought Esref to Millbrook, it is the beauty of the campus and the vibrancy of its community that have enriched his stay. He speaks highly of the dorm culture, noting the genuine connections that students forge. Life at Millbrook seems to be characterized by inclusivity, with an engaged student body that nurtures a sense of belonging. This environment, where everyone can interact freely, fosters both academic and personal growth.
Another cornerstone of Esref Erkman’s experience at Millbrook is the school’s unique zoo. Having the distinction of being the only school in the country with its own zoo, Millbrook offers students unparalleled opportunities to engage with wildlife. Herein lies significant educational value; since the winter season, Esref has been involved with the care and management of diverse animals, from lynx to marmosets, and currently, goats. Each animal requires different caretaking techniques, providing a practical education in zoology and zoo management.
Esref’s involvement with the zoo goes beyond simple caretaking. The program is an integral part of Millbrook’s curriculum and serves a dual purpose by fulfilling community service requirements. It also educates students on ecological stewardship and the importance of biodiversity. This experiential learning is vital for fostering appreciation and understanding of ecological systems. Participating in the zoo program, Esref is acquiring skills that go beyond textbook learning, preparing him for responsible environmental citizenship in the future.
The integration of a zoo into Millbrook’s education system underscores the institution’s commitment to hands-on learning. By interacting with lynx, pandas, marmosets, and goats, students like Esref gain insight into animal behavior, diets, and habitats. This type of learning encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students navigate the complexities of animal care and wellness management. Moreover, it provides a strong foundation for those considering future careers in fields such as wildlife conservation, veterinary sciences, or ecology.
Another facet of this experience is the community service aspect, which instills a sense of responsibility and empathy in the students. The management of a zoo within an educational institution is a significant undertaking that requires collaboration, teamwork, and leadership. Students like Esref leave with an appreciation for the intricacies of wildlife conservation and management, which can inspire future endeavors. It reflects a unique blend of educational enrichment and community building that sets Millbrook apart.
The school’s integration of sports, academics, and unique opportunities like the zoo serve to produce well-rounded individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to society. For Esref Erkman, the experience at Millbrook is defined by the harmonious blend of these elements. It is an environment that respects tradition while innovating for the future of education, providing students with the tools they need to excel both in the classroom and beyond.
Through Esref’s journey, we see how an educational institution can significantly impact a student’s life by fostering passions both academic and athletic. His story serves as an illustration of the profound benefits of choosing an educational path that aligns with one’s personal and professional aspirations. As we look ahead to Esref’s continued contributions both on the ice and in the zoo, it is clear that his time at Millbrook will be characterized by a legacy of dedication, community involvement, and a commitment to wildlife education.
*****
Source Description
Esref Erkman ’27 is our Zooie of The Week! Esref is from Philadelphia and attended The Haverford School before coming to Millbrook.
“I looked at other boarding schools but decided on Millbrook, and Mr. Sorriento and the Hockey program were the main reasons. He’s honest, he’s very straightforward with us, and he genuinely cares about us as people and players. I play defense and I’ve been playing hockey for about 13 years.
Also, the campus is beautiful, and I love the dorm culture here too. I didn’t get that feeling at those other places. And I really like how the student body is very engaged, and everybody knows everybody. And everybody gets along. We have our groups, but anybody can interact with anybody. The student body is great. And there’s a community feeling within the school, which I really like.
I’ve been working in the zoo since the winter. I’ve done the lynx, the red pandas, the marmosets, and now they goats. The zoo is really cool, and we’re the only school with a zoo. And the community service aspect is cool too. We get to come out here and fulfill a requirement for school and work with the animals. It’s a lot of fun for the students, and it’s good for us to learn how to take care of the animals and learn all the skills that come with that.”�
Congratulations Esref! We look forward to watching you play more hockey and also work in the zoo in the coming years!
