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Metadata

ID:
2025-04-14-lucia-sonia-car-ride
Participants:

Conversation Summary: Lucia & Sonia

Overview​

Gary Sheng shared a car ride with Alpha School students Lucia and Sonia on the way to a group dinner. The conversation touched upon the evolution of Alpha School, the proposed Alpha High reality show, and general social dynamics.

Key Discussion Points​

Alpha School Structure & Evolution​

  • Lucia and Sonia reflected on past iterations of Alpha School, noting previous versions (especially middle school) had more academic structure (multiple apps per subject, cohorts).
  • They observed that many older students disliked and left that structure.
  • Lucia expressed concern that the current AP exam focus might lead to a diminishment of broader knowledge.

Alpha High Reality Show Concept​

  • Gary shared the idea for the "Alpha High" reality show, positioning it as essential for scaling awareness and achieving Joe Liemandt's goals.
  • Sonia mentioned having discussed a similar concept previously with another marketing contact (unnamed, potentially Jason Applebaum?).
  • Student Perspectives:
    • Sonia: Seemed intrigued by the potential drama and authentic portrayal, differentiating it from simple dating/interpersonal drama.
    • Lucia: Expressed reservations about being filmed. While committed to honesty, she was concerned about how Alpha School is perceived externally and how being associated with it via the show might impact her reputation or how others judge her.
  • Logistics: Gary mentioned the plan is to start filming over the summer (when the school is potentially open) and ensure any student not wanting to be filmed can opt-out completely.

Social Dynamics​

  • Discussed hanging out with friends outside of Alpha School.
  • General banter about navigation, phone chargers (Gary gifted Sonia a multi-head cord), and Gary's new apartment.

Action Items / Takeaways​

  • Student perspectives on the reality show are mixed; consent and managing external perception will be crucial.
  • Reinforces the need for case study videos (mentioned by Gary) as a complementary marketing effort.
  • The idea of filming during the summer is viable, assuming the school remains open.