New year, new faces. As Bishop Gorman reopens for the second semester, the class of 2025-2026 is welcoming a significant influx of mid-year transfers ready to finish the year as Gaels.

It takes a specific kind of environment to attract students halfway through the calendar, and Gorman delivers through a “total package” appeal. From its professional-grade network to its top-tier facilities, the school manages to balance its high-stakes reputation with a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that incoming students find their footing—and their faith—from day one.

For instance, transfer student Ella Baxa ‘29 shared what her experience has been like for the two weeks she’s been at Gorman during second semester. 

“The people at Bishop Gorman High School are really nice and open, and the environment is highly spirited, but also very strict and competitive,” Baxa said. 

That transition is exactly what drew in sophomore transfer C.J. Boyce ‘28 who felt the shift in energy immediately.

“Coming in mid-year is usually a nightmare, but at Gorman, it felt like I’d been here since freshman year,” Boyce said. “The facilities are incredible, sure, but it’s the way the people actually look out for you that makes the difference.”

For many, the jump to Bishop Gorman requires a shift in mindset to match the school’s disciplined atmosphere. P.J. Faiai ‘28 noticed the difference the moment he stepped onto campus.

“My biggest surprise was the uniforms and the overall policy—it’s all very new to me,” Faiai said. “But now that I’m here, my goals are to get better grades, focus more on football, and make my parents proud.”