Zayd Benayoud is currently a high school student, but he already sees how much his time at Andover School of Montessori has shaped the way he approaches learning and life. As he began his transition to Brooks School, he quickly realized how well-prepared he was, both academically and personally. “I was well prepared. A lot of it felt like a review,” he said, noting how ASM gave him not only a solid academic foundation but also the tools to stay organized, manage his time, and balance multiple responsibilities with confidence.
A dedicated athlete, Zayd trained at a high level with Seacoast United while still a student at ASM, often practicing up to ten hours a week. He believes that the independence and self-direction he developed at ASM allowed him to manage this rigorous training without compromising his schoolwork. He is now enrolled at the Center of Excellence in Lawrence, MA to prepare for collegiate and potentially professional soccer. “At ASM, I always tried to do my best, and I know I’ll continue doing that, whether I’m playing soccer or studying,” he said. The values of discipline, responsibility, and perseverance remain at the core of his academic and athletic journey.
Looking back, Zayd recognizes how ASM helped shape not only his academic abilities but also his character and resilience. He recalls standout experiences like the science fair, which taught him how to take initiative and work through challenges independently, and the unforgettable seventh-grade outdoor adventure in New Hampshire. “Camping for five days taught me how to be resourceful and appreciate life and nature. We all helped each other out and bonded so much,” he reflects. As he continues his journey toward playing collegiate soccer and pursuing his academic interests in math and history, Zayd credits ASM for equipping him with the skills, mindset, and confidence to succeed. “All in all, my experience at ASM has provided me with skills I can apply not only in the classroom but in all aspects of life,” he says with gratitude.
