Transitioning to Senior School marks a pivotal moment for Grade 9 students, filled with both anticipation and uncertainty. At SMUS, the Link Leader program is the key to a smooth, welcoming, and enjoyable transition. Putting the leadership in the hands of Grade 12 students, the program sets up each new Grade 9 student to feel confident and supported. A shining example of this mission in action was the annual Egg Drop event—a fun, mid-year stress relief and competitive tradition that benefits both mentors and mentees alike.
The Link Leaders program stands out as a cornerstone of SMUS’s commitment to fostering a connected and supportive school community. What makes it truly unique is its focus on empowering Grade 12 students to serve as mentors, bridging the gap between grades while cultivating leadership in a way that deeply enriches the school culture.
The Egg Drop: Breaking Stress Together
This Friday, on Jan. 17, the Egg Drop took centre stage from the balconies of the Crothall Building. Guided by their Grade 12 Link Leaders, Grade 9 students worked together to create protective devices for an egg to survive a second story drop. The event combined problem-solving with a symbolic message—just like the eggs, students could learn to manage their stress with the right support and strategies.
In preparation for the event, the energy among the Link Leaders was palpable. During a meeting earlier in the week, the atmosphere in the classroom was warm and welcoming. Music played as students entered, and the room buzzed with energy and excitement. The positive and supportive rapport between teachers and students was evident, and the room was filled to capacity—standing room only. This dynamic set the stage for the Friday festivities and reflected the program’s ethos of inclusivity and enthusiasm.
The Egg Drop was more than just a fun challenge. It was a chance for students to bond, step out of their comfort zones, and experience the joy of collaboration.
Remarkably, this year’s Grade 12 Link Leaders had missed out on their own Grade 9 Egg Drop experience due to the pandemic disruptions. Despite this, there was full commitment to creating an unforgettable experience for those who came after them.
Impact on Students
For Grade 9s, the activity was memorable and went beyond their engineering skills. Students connected with others, gained practical stress-management skills and deepened their sense of belonging within the SMUS community. The activity was structured to encourage teamwork, with Link Leaders guiding their groups through brainstorming, building, and testing.
“It's actually really nice to work together," shared Grade 9 student Ellie McQueen. "I came (to SMUS) from a public school and these activities have been a confidence booster. We receive a lot of support and help from the school and fellow students."
For Link Leaders, the Egg Drop was a chance to shine as mentors and leaders. Tasked with guiding their Grade 9 groups without taking over, they learned how to guide their groups.
“It was amazing to see Grade 9's get through something fun, be creative, build something cool, and then have a chance at winning as a team,” noted Link Leader Jack McQueen '25, who is coincidentally also older brother to Ellie.
The event reinforced the importance of adaptability in leadership, preparing Grade 12 students for future challenges beyond high school.
The Bigger Picture
The Egg Drop was just one of many events that showcased the SMUS Link Leaders program’s broader impact, from fostering a culture of mentorship to promoting bonds throughout the school. The camaraderie built through these activities resonates throughout the school year.
The annual Egg Drop was much more than a fun tradition. It was a testament to the power of helping students navigate the challenges of school life. These experiences create lasting memories and build the foundation for a supportive, thriving school environment.
