It had been 30 weeks since the entire USAPCS Class of 2024 was last together on campus. From June 20 to 22, they reunited for College Readiness Weekend—or as they called it, “The Reunion”—an event they had eagerly awaited.
The program kicked off at the Education Matters office, where most of the class gathered. Drawing from their own international experiences, alumni Nicole Khumbula (USAP ’15), Betty Mafemera (USAP ’13), and Lloyd Maodzeka (USAP ’16) offered heartfelt advice on financial literacy and navigating life as a student abroad.
The journey from Harare to Marondera flew by, filled with laughter and catch-ups among friends, former deskmates, housemates, and advisory group siblings. On arrival, the Class of 2024 was greeted warmly—literally with open arms—by their younger USAPCS siblings. After dinner, nearly the whole school, alongside the returning alumni, gathered in the library classroom for the much-anticipated Library Art Concert. The performances delivered everything a joyful crowd could ask for.
Soon after, the Class of 2024 gathered in the dining hall with their little sisters and brothers to watch the documentary Brief Tender Light. The film followed the inspiring journeys of four African students at MIT, from their acceptance to their graduation, offering a powerful glimpse into their challenges, growth, and triumphs that they are yet to experience.
Saturday began with a lively breakfast, full of inside jokes and fond memories of high school days. Then came a packed day of sessions, notebooks wide open and minds even more so. From culture shock to budgeting, the information kept flowing. By the end of the afternoon, students felt more prepared—mentally and emotionally—for the new worlds they’re about to enter. And when the learning paused, the celebration began: a joyful evening of photos, braai, s’mores, music, and dancing lit up the night.
As is tradition at USAPCS, the entire group gathered for Quaker Meeting to reflect on a prompt. For the Class of 2024: “What opportunities do you wish you had taken while at USAP, and what lessons do you take from that?” And for the current students: “What opportunities do you hope to take while at USAP, and what lessons do you hope to carry forward?” The space fell into a thoughtful silence—one that spoke louder than words. Then came the sharing. And just when emotions couldn’t run any deeper, the USAPella alumni from the Class of 2024 raised their voices in a powerful song that seemed to shake the very ground beneath them.
The final session on what to pack brought everyone back to reality. After lunch, the Class of 2024 boarded the bus. There were more hugs. More tears. And just like that, the long-awaited College Readiness Weekend came to a close.
A special thank you goes to the alumni committee for organizing such a meaningful event, and to Mai Mano and Ms. Raquel for generously sharing their wisdom and time.
