May 22, 2025
This message is from MPA’s Office of Admission from the May 22 issue of Inside MPA. Click here to get in touch with Admission and learn more!
Since our founding, MPA’s mission statement has been simple, but powerful: “We teach students to think independently, communicate effectively, and act with respect and integrity in a diverse community that models intellectual ambition, global responsibility, and the joy of learning.” One of the most significant parts of the MPA experience is service learning. Designed to help students grow through acts of compassion and contribution, service learning at MPA encourages them to use their energy and talents to make a real impact–not for reward or recognition, but because it’s the right thing to do and helps improve our community both locally and globally.
“I learned that I really like to help people. I realized that it made me happy when I got to feel like I was being helpful, when I was given a task to do that would benefit others,” says MPA senior Lizzie Moldan about her work with Solid Ground. “I also really like working with kids, and this opportunity to tutor made me realize that even more than I did before.”
MPA students complete at least 60 hours of service during their four years of Upper School, including a capstone Senior Service Project that lets them dive deeper into a cause they care about. By giving back, students strengthen their connection to the many communities they’re part of and learn the power of empathy, leadership, and building positive relationships.
“Through this process, I have learned so many things about myself and the world. I learned the fundamentals of water filtration and how to build the systems, but most importantly, I got exposed to a drastically different country and culture, which changed my perspective on the world,” shares senior Delaney Cunnington about her senior service project with Living Waters For The World.
A culture of mutual respect and a commitment to meaningful service prepare students to be responsible global citizens. By fostering engagement, leadership, and a strong sense of community, MPA helps students grow into thoughtful, capable individuals who are ready to make a positive impact in the world. Take a look at the Class of 2025’s reflections on their senior service projects here!
