Doing My Best: A Hyde School Alumni Story of Growth and Character

A Hyde School Alumni Success Story

This reflection comes from a Hyde School graduate whose transformative experience in the 1970s shaped his character, confidence, and lifelong approach to effort and integrity..

Hyde School Alumni Story

Michael S. Nuesse ’76, reflecting on how Hyde School’s values of courage, integrity, and effort shaped his life, academics, athletics, and career.

My father was a doctor. My mother’s career as a nurse was cut short by my birth—and later by my two younger siblings. I was a good kid, not expected to have issues. But in high school, I didn’t feel challenged. I was looking for something more. My parents agreed it was time to explore prep schools.

The first interview we went to lasted 30 minutes. They told me I would enjoy studying the frog pond in the woods near the freshman dorm.

The Hyde School interview lasted four hours.

With my parents still in the room, I was asked, “Have you ever lied to your parents?”

Ugh. Yes. Doesn’t everybody?

Then: “What have you done lately that you’re proud of?”

I couldn’t think of anything.

So began my Hyde education—uncomfortable, challenging, and ultimately life changing.

At Hyde School, I was pushed to explore what Courage, Integrity, Curiosity, and Concern for Others truly meant. Could I do my best even when no one was watching? Would I share my real feelings in group seminars? What was I hiding? What wasn’t I proud of?

Every day required effort. Whether washing dishes, making my bed, participating in class, or running full out in sports, I kept asking:

Am I doing my best?

At Hyde, growth wasn’t optional—it was expected.

Good things started to happen when I was honest with myself, stepped up to challenges, and supported others to do the same.

My senior year, I was co-captain of our undefeated football team. That summer, I joined the Hyde School production America’s Spirit, performing from South Portland to off Broadway in New York, and at the Grand Ole Opry, the Kennedy Center, and The King Center in Atlanta.

By the time we returned to Hyde, I was more than ready for college.

Today, as an attorney, I still draw on what Hyde taught me: to listen to my conscience, step up to challenges, and be grateful for the lessons along the way.

Hyde isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for the easy path—or studying the frog pond in the woods—it may not be the place for you. But if you’re willing to be honest with yourself and give your best effort, Hyde can change your life.

It certainly changed mine.

— Michael S. Nuesse ’76

The Lasting Impact of a Hyde School Education

Hyde Voices shares authentic perspectives from Hyde School alumni, parents, and staff. Each story demonstrates how Hyde School’s focus on truth, growth, and character creates lasting change. Explore more Hyde School stories, share your own reflection, or learn more about the school itself at the Hyde School website.