From San Diego French-American School to Dartmouth: How Alexander Llewellyn Smith’s Early Education Shaped His Success
To kick off our Alumni Spotlight Series, we had the privilege of hosting San Diego French-American School (SDFAS) alum Alexander Llewellyn Smith whose academic journey is a testament to the power of a strong educational foundation. After graduating from SDFAS in 2020, Alexander attended La Jolla High School, and today, as a student at Dartmouth College, he is pursuing a major in Engineering Sciences. So, what set him on this path of academic success? According to Alexander, it was the unique combination of work ethic, study habits, and the nurturing environment he experienced at SDFAS that helped him thrive in high school and beyond.
Building Strong Foundations at SDFAS
Alexander’s story with SDFAS began in preschool and continued through to 8th grade. The demanding workload—homework, essays, and tests—taught him valuable time-management skills and reinforced the importance of a strong work ethic. The academic rigor at SDFAS, combined with its small class sizes and individualized support, enabled Alexander to excel while also developing important social-emotional skills.
An Early Passion for Engineering and Robotics
One of the defining aspects of Alexander’s time at SDFAS was the school’s ability to spark and nurture his interests in robotics, engineering, and coding. Through exposure to various STEM activities, he discovered a passion that would shape his academic path. He credits the school’s approach to teaching—where teachers genuinely cared about each student’s individual progress—with helping him develop a deep love for engineering. This strong foundation set Alexander apart in high school, where he excelled in advanced courses like AP European History and Geometry. “I was much better prepared for subjects like AP European History and Geometry compared to my classmates, and that’s largely because of the education I received at SDFAS,” he says.
The Importance of Community and Diversity
Beyond academics, SDFAS’s strong sense of community made a lasting impression on Alexander. “The sense of community at SDFAS was very strong,” he reflects. The bonds he formed with classmates went beyond the classroom and have endured into his college years. Growing up in a multicultural household—his father is half French, half British, and his mother is American—Alexander was naturally drawn to SDFAS’s diverse environment. Learning French not only allowed him to maintain a connection to his French heritage but also opened doors to understanding French-speaking cultures and languages he might not have encountered otherwise. At SDFAS, exposure to diverse cultures extended beyond language, as friendships introduced him to new foods, traditions, and perspectives.
Notable Teachers and Favorite Memories
One standout feature of Alexander’s time at SDFAS was the exceptional quality of the faculty. “What sets SDFAS apart is the fact that all the teachers were consistently great, with no exceptions,” Alexander says. Beyond academics, Alexander cherishes the school’s special events. “I loved the half days—we’d have time to relax and hang out with friends. Field days were another highlight, where each grade participated in friendly sports competitions. Astrocamp, Rawhide Ranch, and the Joshua Tree trips were also memorable experiences.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future at Dartmouth
Now studying Engineering Sciences at Dartmouth, Alexander’s experiences at SDFAS continue to serve him well. The academic discipline, curiosity, and love for learning instilled in him at SDFAS have seamlessly translated into his college studies. As he looks toward the future, Alexander is deeply grateful for the foundation SDFAS provided. The strong sense of community, the opportunities to learn a second and third language, and the exposure to different cultures have all been integral in shaping who he is today. Alexander’s journey from SDFAS to Dartmouth will certainly continue to inspire the next generation of students, proving that with the right foundation, the possibilities are limitless.
