By Matthew Zandler and Hugh Nolde

A typical day at school for Landon Conklin (‘27) starts hours before he steps foot on Collegiate’s grounds. As he wakes up, Conklin first greets his beloved dog Duke. Waking up each day to his furry friend is certainly a highlight of his day. Conklin then takes a shower and changes into his clothes. As a very stylish person, Conklin is sure to make his clothes match to create a great outfit. After gazing in the mirror and ensuring he looks spiffy, Conklin says goodbye to his family and begins his journey to school. Living in Ashland, Virginia, Conklin has a near forty-minute drive to school. 

He pockets his phone responsibly as he arrives and heads to Sharp Academic Commons, where, Conklin says, “ I greet my boys.” After he catches up with his friends, he stops by the cafe to order some breakfast. The caring cafe workers know Conklin’s order by heart: bacon, egg, and cheese on an Asiago bagel. After receiving his bagel, “I douse that bad boy with Tapatio hot sauce.” 

After taking down his breakfast, leaving no crumb behind, Conklin heads to his first period class, starting his school day. He works through his academic day with a love of learning. His Honors Spanish V course is his favorite, which he describes as “a really great group of people and a fun teacher.” 

When the difficult school day concludes, Conklin makes his way out to Grover Jones Field for football practice. This week, the excitement in the locker room is palpable. On Friday, Nov. 6, Collegiate takes on their historic rivals, St. Christopher’s. “As a captain,” Conklin said, “You have to make sure the team is locked in on a day-to-day basis.” Conklin plays center and guard on the team.

After leaving it all out on the field in practice, Conklin heads home. He usually listens to some Grateful Dead, Widespread Panic, or live Phish concerts in the car. As soon as Conklin walks in the door, his nostrils are filled with the sweet smoky, scents of his father’s cooking. For Conklin’s dad, Chris Conklin, cooking food in the smoker is a welcome pastime.

After enjoying his meal, he retires to his bedroom, knocking out some homework for his classes. Then, when the evening hush hits him, Landon says, “I hit the sack like it owes me money.” Conklin’s days are filled with friendships, family, school work, and sports, creating a balanced and complete day.

All photos by Matthew Zandler and Hugh Nolde.