Seniors!
I have some exciting news. I've been keeping this a secret to its finality, but here it is!
I emailed my admissions counselor Sam Duplessis from UChicago. He happens to be the Assistant Director of Admissions, and also a friendly person :]. Though I am not attending UChicago, he graciously agreed to an interview about applying to highly selective schools. I want to say that many selective schools are fantastic, and you would have the time of your life there. Just remember to apply for the right reasons. Pretty much, only apply if it's a fit for YOU. I am so pleased to present the results of this interview. This is a person IN the college process, the one reading the applications, so you are all really lucky!
1) What kinds of courses do you recommend they take their senior year?
Students looking for admission to a highly selective school should maintain a broad and rigorous curriculum throughout high school. For many this entails four years of core subjects, such as math, science, English and history. Students are also encouraged to pursue rigorous courses in the arts, language and additional subject material of personal interest. Students can help themselves get noticed by taking extra classes in their area of interest at school, local colleges, online and by studying other course material in their free time (right, I know, “free time”).
2) How important is "showing interest" (visits, responding to emails, etc.)?
Showing interest in a school can be valuable and comes in many forms. Many colleges and universities appreciate it when a student is knowledgeable about the institution. Asking good questions, staying informed about current developments and spending some time with the website are all easy ways to do this. Showing interest and knowledge can be helpful to the admissions staff in determining a student’s fit with the school, particularly in cases where the college has distinctive academic or structural aspects, such as those that exist at UChicago. We know that many of our applicants may not be able to afford the time or expense of visiting each school and for this reason a campus visit does not affect the admissions decision. In the same vein, we do not require an interview as a part of the application process, though we are happy to provide one if possible.
N.B. When responding to emails, remember that every interaction with the admissions office is an opportunity to make a good impression. Avoid informal language or emails with just one word. You also might want to think about which email address you use to contact the institution (you choose: PrincessPancake@glittermail.com or Jane.Doe@gmail.com) [Blogger Note: I have mentioned this in a previous blog, but I will point it out again. BE PROFESSIONAL].
3) What are the three most important factors to you in the application process(essays, test scores, etc.)?
At UChicago, we practice holistic admission. This means that all parts of the application are considered equally. Rather than list areas where seniors have little or no control, like grades from freshman year, I’ll focus on some areas where students can exert some control. We encourage you to work hard on your essays and always allow time for revision. Essays are a great opportunity to demonstrate fit, intellectual qualities, deeper understanding of larger issues and individual personality. Much valuable information about an applicant can be gleaned from the essays, which is why we offer engaging and challenging essay prompts as an opportunity for our applicants to display the above mentioned skills. We also value leadership and broad involvement in your community, so make sure your résumé reflects this. As mentioned above, evidence of success in a broad and rigorous high school curriculum is also important. Course-work at UChicago (and many other highly selective schools) is demanding and engaging, thus we want to ensure that our incoming students are well-prepared for the challenge.
4) How focused should students be on test scores?
The deal is that most of the students who are admitted to UChicago do quite well on standardized tests (SAT or ACT), but because we read applications holistically, we are able to accommodate lower testers who show their academic and intellectual potential in other ways. That being said, there are many free opportunities to prepare for these exams by taking practice tests and learning about the types of questions and answers expected in each format. Do remember that no matter how you score, this is not a measure of you as a person.
5)What advice would you give to someone who is scared to apply?
Just go for it! The worst thing that can happen is that you won’t end up at UChicago next year. This is particularly good advice for someone who really wants to attend but doesn’t feel secure about it. Demonstrated passion for UChicago is something for which we read carefully in the application. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our admissions staff with questions or concerns of any kind. It’s our job to help you through this process and make it as painless and stress-free as possible. Also, think about starting your application early. It will feel great to have it taken care of before you get into the stress of your senior year.
6) This might be more of a question for a financial aid counselor, but I'll ask it anyway: Applying to a school the expense of UChicago is reasonable for low income families (because of need based aid) and for very wealthy families, but what advice can you give for students of the middle class? Is UChicago even possible?
UChicago is absolutely a possibility for all kinds of families. One thing to remember is that UChicago is committed to meeting 100% of a family’s demonstrated financial need. We recognize that there are many aspects to a family’s financial situation that are difficult to explain, so we welcome additional supporting documents and information that might be relevant to our financial aid office. Every family is considered individually using a variety of criteria with an end goal of making UChicago a viable financial choice for each admitted student.
7) Which teachers should they be asking recommendations from?
Students should consider teachers from core classes, math, science, history and English. We also recommend, but don’t require, that you choose teachers from later in your academic career, as they are more likely to have recent, relevant information about your academic and intellectual qualities. Feel free to consider additional letters from coaches, elective teachers and other mentors, but remember that we read over 60,000 letters of recommendation a year, so make sure this person has something unique and relevant to say.
8) If you have any other pieces of advice/reassurances, feel free to add them
Remember to keep breathing and ask for help when you need it. You are lucky to be at a school with a wonderful college counselor and a multitude of resources available to you. Take advantage of the advice of teachers and mentors and know that each college to which you apply wants to help you through this process. The most important thing to keep in mind is that each and every one of you will end up at a wonderful college or university and have the time of your life, learning and living with distinguished faculty and wonderful new friends from around the world!
A large part of the advice here is universal, whether you are applying to Georgetown, UChicago, or Stanford. However, remember to talk to the admissions counselors at your particular school about admissions criteria, expectations, and the overall personality of the school. Not all highly selective schools are the same, so do your research, keep in touch, and stay informed.
-Celinda :]
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
More Financial Aid!
Long time no blog...but, I promised to blog until I went to college, so here I am! First, long overdue thanks to the Wylde Q. Chicken award committee for choosing the blog as their 2011 recipient. I also wanted to thank my fellow PCCs, because this blog wouldn't exist without their invaluable thoughts and blogs. I also want to thank my numerous guests, such as Elenita, Adam, Seth, etc. for their wonderful and insightful blogs on topics I won't even pretend to be knowledgable in. Finally, a warm thanks to Lisa Micele, for her faith in the blog from its inception, and for her guidance throughout the process. You rising seniors are really lucky :D
And now, I would like to get to the actual blog :]
During the fabulous (whyamInotthererightnow??) Italy trip, I was talking about my finanical aid with some of you rising seniors. I want to take a moment to talk about several points of interest, namely your finanical aid options (now that I have a finanicial aid package) and about contesting your particular financial aid package.
When you finally get your package, there will be a blur of numbers and categories, which might induce headache. First, I want to clear up those categories. Then, I want to talk about gauging a good package vs. a bad package. Finally, how do you contest a package if your family is truly worried about making ends meet?
Grants: Ulysses S. Grant was our 18th president, and frankly, he was kinda useless and nondescript. Jump forward to the 2000s. Seniors, I would like you to meet the essential, useful, and wonderful Grant. These are the federal and college grants. Grants in the financial aid world are like the pony you always wanted for your birthday...in that it's a gift. That's right, grants are money that is promised to you, that you never have to pay back. So, when you see the word grant, throw confetti in the air and sing "Celebration".
DIRECT loans: Alright, put the mic down young Kool there. Now it's time to talk about loans. When I first thought of loans, I thought of loan sharks, Barbershop style, or like the Mafia. Or, alternatively, I thought of 45 year old me still paying off loans, or worse, defaulting and having thousands of dollars of debt. Basically, not the best image of loans. However, although loans are never a "good" thing, they can be necessary. Further, they can be manageable.
So, there are two types of direct loans:
-Direct Subsidized loans are based on your financial need level, which is calculated from filling out the FAFSA and EFC (expected family contribution). You do not need to begin paying this loan off until after you graduate and the 6 month grace period has elapsed. Further, interest does not begin to accumulate until after graduation and the grace period has passed. There are actually multiple payment options, because not all graduates follow the same life plan. Out of all the loans, the subsidized is the best kind.
-Direct Unsubsidized loans can be taken out by anyone. The catch is that the minute the loan has been given to you, interest will begin to accrue. Like the subsidized loan, you do not have to pay until you graduate, or your enrollment drops under half-time (this being measured by credit hours). Now, it is in your best interest to begin paying off interest from the get-go, because unpaid interest is added to the principal (a process known as capitalization). Then, interest is charged on the raised principal. It's really quite fascinating. Anyway, these loans are again, not "bad", if you work with your parents and maybe a financial advisor (a bank person, a family friend) in making a financial plan.
For me personally, I am taking our the amount of subsidized loans I am qualified for, and refusing the unsubsidized.
Federal Work Study: Federal Work Study is basically a program where colleges and the government are in cahoots to make you work partime. Here's how it works. You go to college, you get job offered on campus, you work, money comes to you, you use it to pay for books, personal expenses, etc. This is quite an interesting award, because it's not guaranteed. Remember the pony? Yes? Okay. Think of the pony analogy this way. You can have the pony, if you clean the stalls, feed it, give it exercise, take it the vet, clean it, and give it a sugar cube from time to time. Pretty much, you work to get the award, and the amount of money you get is based on how much you work. Now, that doesn't mean you can work all the time. You have a glass ceiling. The glass ceiling is how much money you are eligible based on YOU GUESSED IT, FAFSA and the EFC. I hope that all made sense....
Academic/Talent Scolarship: Yay you! You are given this because of your grades, because you can eat fire, because you have known complex calculus since age three, whatever floats your boat. But, let's look at the pony situation in an academic setting. You take care of your pony really well, you keep your grades up. However, if you go two weeks without going to the barn, your pony will be worse for wear. Similarly, if you start sliding by, your scholarship might slide on out. These scholarships are a year by year thing--meaning, if freshman year you were a lazy bum that never went to class, sophomore year you will be a lazy bum without your scholarship.
Now, you have your financial aid package. How can you check if it's good? There are several things you can do. First off, look at your parent's income for the past fiscal year, or if that isn't available, the previous fiscal year. On Collegeboard, they have an EFC calculator. Use it to check numbers. Talk to a financial expert. Review your family's expenses. You might consider vacationing closer to home, or not building your mini Seaworld in the backyard. You might do some soul searching. If it's the school of your dreams, then you could take out a loan that's a little bigger than you were hoping. If the package is not feasable, but you think it could be, then let's talk contesting.
One important thing I want to bring up. If you apply early decision and are accepted, you can't really contest the package. The idea is, you enter the agreement regardless of financial aid. If financial aid is going to be an issue, you might want to have a conversation with Lisa Micele. There are students who apply to schools ED, get in, get their package, and are completely fine. But, have the conversation with your parents and with Lisa before jumping right in.
For EA and Regular decision kids here's how it works:
You are going to get your financial aid package. (IMPORTANT: As you get financial aid packages, especially really good ones from schools you're not as interested in, save them! SAVE THEM! You'll see why ;]) If it seems that maybe, with a few more thousands or so, the school could be a viable option, then the next step is to think. Think if you like this school a lot. If you really can see yourself there, then you are in a position to contest it. Next, get in contact with your admissions counselor or financial aid counselor. Tell them something like "I love this school, but financially I'm not sure it's viable...".
Your school might do it somewhat differently, but it's the same basic principle. You will mail a copy of your other financial aid offers, along with a statement about how much you love the school and why you want to attend. That's pretty much it.
Two questions I know will come up:
1) What if it doesn't work?
2) What if my dream school is my best offer/I have no schools to bargain with?
1) You are at a crossroads young grasshopper. You can either try to contest it a second time (nicely of course), or you can give it up and try to make ends meet. If you are unsure which one to choose, have a meeting with Lisa, or with your admissions counselor. They have already accepted you, which means they want you. Maybe the college is feeling stretched thin, maybe you haven't looked at your finances thoroughly, whatever. But talking to them will show your commitment, and give you a better chance at success. No promises here.
2) Talk to your counselor. They might be really happy to have been the school to give you the best offer. They might be able to bump it up, even without schools to bargain with, especially if you show interest. You are not actually in as bad a position as you think. Genuine, mature, interest from a person looking at their finances logically will go a long way for these people.
Worst case? You don't get it bumped up. But look at the bright side. You have been accepted! You have a financial aid package! And, sometimes you can choose the college you love, even if it means a little more loans. Conversely, you might choose your second, or even last favorite, and find your happiness there.
Best of luck!
Celinda
And now, I would like to get to the actual blog :]
During the fabulous (whyamInotthererightnow??) Italy trip, I was talking about my finanical aid with some of you rising seniors. I want to take a moment to talk about several points of interest, namely your finanical aid options (now that I have a finanicial aid package) and about contesting your particular financial aid package.
When you finally get your package, there will be a blur of numbers and categories, which might induce headache. First, I want to clear up those categories. Then, I want to talk about gauging a good package vs. a bad package. Finally, how do you contest a package if your family is truly worried about making ends meet?
Grants: Ulysses S. Grant was our 18th president, and frankly, he was kinda useless and nondescript. Jump forward to the 2000s. Seniors, I would like you to meet the essential, useful, and wonderful Grant. These are the federal and college grants. Grants in the financial aid world are like the pony you always wanted for your birthday...in that it's a gift. That's right, grants are money that is promised to you, that you never have to pay back. So, when you see the word grant, throw confetti in the air and sing "Celebration".
DIRECT loans: Alright, put the mic down young Kool there. Now it's time to talk about loans. When I first thought of loans, I thought of loan sharks, Barbershop style, or like the Mafia. Or, alternatively, I thought of 45 year old me still paying off loans, or worse, defaulting and having thousands of dollars of debt. Basically, not the best image of loans. However, although loans are never a "good" thing, they can be necessary. Further, they can be manageable.
So, there are two types of direct loans:
-Direct Subsidized loans are based on your financial need level, which is calculated from filling out the FAFSA and EFC (expected family contribution). You do not need to begin paying this loan off until after you graduate and the 6 month grace period has elapsed. Further, interest does not begin to accumulate until after graduation and the grace period has passed. There are actually multiple payment options, because not all graduates follow the same life plan. Out of all the loans, the subsidized is the best kind.
-Direct Unsubsidized loans can be taken out by anyone. The catch is that the minute the loan has been given to you, interest will begin to accrue. Like the subsidized loan, you do not have to pay until you graduate, or your enrollment drops under half-time (this being measured by credit hours). Now, it is in your best interest to begin paying off interest from the get-go, because unpaid interest is added to the principal (a process known as capitalization). Then, interest is charged on the raised principal. It's really quite fascinating. Anyway, these loans are again, not "bad", if you work with your parents and maybe a financial advisor (a bank person, a family friend) in making a financial plan.
For me personally, I am taking our the amount of subsidized loans I am qualified for, and refusing the unsubsidized.
Federal Work Study: Federal Work Study is basically a program where colleges and the government are in cahoots to make you work partime. Here's how it works. You go to college, you get job offered on campus, you work, money comes to you, you use it to pay for books, personal expenses, etc. This is quite an interesting award, because it's not guaranteed. Remember the pony? Yes? Okay. Think of the pony analogy this way. You can have the pony, if you clean the stalls, feed it, give it exercise, take it the vet, clean it, and give it a sugar cube from time to time. Pretty much, you work to get the award, and the amount of money you get is based on how much you work. Now, that doesn't mean you can work all the time. You have a glass ceiling. The glass ceiling is how much money you are eligible based on YOU GUESSED IT, FAFSA and the EFC. I hope that all made sense....
Academic/Talent Scolarship: Yay you! You are given this because of your grades, because you can eat fire, because you have known complex calculus since age three, whatever floats your boat. But, let's look at the pony situation in an academic setting. You take care of your pony really well, you keep your grades up. However, if you go two weeks without going to the barn, your pony will be worse for wear. Similarly, if you start sliding by, your scholarship might slide on out. These scholarships are a year by year thing--meaning, if freshman year you were a lazy bum that never went to class, sophomore year you will be a lazy bum without your scholarship.
Now, you have your financial aid package. How can you check if it's good? There are several things you can do. First off, look at your parent's income for the past fiscal year, or if that isn't available, the previous fiscal year. On Collegeboard, they have an EFC calculator. Use it to check numbers. Talk to a financial expert. Review your family's expenses. You might consider vacationing closer to home, or not building your mini Seaworld in the backyard. You might do some soul searching. If it's the school of your dreams, then you could take out a loan that's a little bigger than you were hoping. If the package is not feasable, but you think it could be, then let's talk contesting.
One important thing I want to bring up. If you apply early decision and are accepted, you can't really contest the package. The idea is, you enter the agreement regardless of financial aid. If financial aid is going to be an issue, you might want to have a conversation with Lisa Micele. There are students who apply to schools ED, get in, get their package, and are completely fine. But, have the conversation with your parents and with Lisa before jumping right in.
For EA and Regular decision kids here's how it works:
You are going to get your financial aid package. (IMPORTANT: As you get financial aid packages, especially really good ones from schools you're not as interested in, save them! SAVE THEM! You'll see why ;]) If it seems that maybe, with a few more thousands or so, the school could be a viable option, then the next step is to think. Think if you like this school a lot. If you really can see yourself there, then you are in a position to contest it. Next, get in contact with your admissions counselor or financial aid counselor. Tell them something like "I love this school, but financially I'm not sure it's viable...".
Your school might do it somewhat differently, but it's the same basic principle. You will mail a copy of your other financial aid offers, along with a statement about how much you love the school and why you want to attend. That's pretty much it.
Two questions I know will come up:
1) What if it doesn't work?
2) What if my dream school is my best offer/I have no schools to bargain with?
1) You are at a crossroads young grasshopper. You can either try to contest it a second time (nicely of course), or you can give it up and try to make ends meet. If you are unsure which one to choose, have a meeting with Lisa, or with your admissions counselor. They have already accepted you, which means they want you. Maybe the college is feeling stretched thin, maybe you haven't looked at your finances thoroughly, whatever. But talking to them will show your commitment, and give you a better chance at success. No promises here.
2) Talk to your counselor. They might be really happy to have been the school to give you the best offer. They might be able to bump it up, even without schools to bargain with, especially if you show interest. You are not actually in as bad a position as you think. Genuine, mature, interest from a person looking at their finances logically will go a long way for these people.
Worst case? You don't get it bumped up. But look at the bright side. You have been accepted! You have a financial aid package! And, sometimes you can choose the college you love, even if it means a little more loans. Conversely, you might choose your second, or even last favorite, and find your happiness there.
Best of luck!
Celinda
Monday, May 9, 2011
Breaking Tradition: Elenita's Post-Uni Plans
I sat down metaphorically (aka sent a Facebook message) to Elenita for an interview on her post-Uni plans. Here is the exciting interview!
1) What are you up to next year?
Organic farming in two superb locations! I'm going to the Nantahalla Mountains, NC for four months then Maui, HI for four more. I could not be more psyched, I made the perfect decision for myself. I was initially going to do one year in one location but I am utterly incapable of making decisions so I just split up a year into semesters. Also I wanted summer ‘12 free because I don’t get to see people otherwise.
2) How do you stumble across this opportunity?
Well, long story. It has a lot to do with my being overly flexible in my life or somewhat rash, one might say. You see, in the very beginning, I was planning to go straight to college. So I was really excited and constantly looking for colleges that I thought would fit me and I visited them to make sure and such. Then I decided I need to take a gap year, which was no biggie, but I had to cut our any state schools on my list essentially. So I started applying and all and they were mostly all done when I realized that I hated every college on my list. I didn’t like the people or the places so I decided I’d do a year in Parkland Pathways then transfer to a place I’d like better. But then sometime in March, after I finished my Pathways application too, I remembered that I hate it here (which is not a dig at anyone who does, it all has to do with the individual, you know, and I happen to not function well in the CU).
At the this point I had to really think about what I like, which wasn’t hard, I like nice people and hate material goods. So a commune I was set on seeking. However, after only a week of online commune seeking I realized that about 70% of what I had seen were cults, and though I wanted to join two in particular, my parents were not enthused. But that was okay, because I noticed what also attracted me to those particular communes was their sustainable development, in particular, farms. So I then just stumbled upon growfood.org, the best website on the interweb perhaps. It’s great, just hundreds of farms. So at that point, planning next year was just gravy. I chose the farms that looked funnest.
3) What were your initial thoughts about the college process?
It completely overwhelmed me. I was not into the idea of trying to explain my essence to strangers in tiny essays and grades. I was convinced that no college, no matter how good the rest of my application, would accept me based on my lowly GPA. Of course, this is not true at all, but I was very self conscious of college admissions. I mean their job is just judging people based on very little and I hate that. Who doesn’t? But when it actually came down to putting my applications together, it wasn’t that bad at all. It’s so over-hyped but it’s really not that bad, I think people just like to scare applicants. That’s what’s up.
4) Did you feel supported by your peers during the process? Your family?
Well, honestly, I don’t talk to that many of peers. It’s not good, especially because it seemed like my class was really supportive of each other throughout the application process, I think most classes are. The people I talk to most, however, I generally against the whole systems for applying, and a lot of what we say is true, but it’s entirely unhelpful while you have to go though it.
My parents, on the other hand, I just lied to them a lot about my progress and didn’t tell them when I decided not to turn anything in, which was silly. They’re not pushy at all, it probably would have helped to keep them in the know a bit more. If they were pushy though, it probably would have been easier lying to them than having them on my butt the whole time.
5) Do you feel supported by your peers with your decision? Your family?
Oh I do! Everyone I tell about next year says something really positive and enthusiastic, which is nice. In general, students are always at least pleasant about others’ college plans. Sometimes younger classes get all sassy and say obnoxious things but they haven’t done it yet! Once students have everyone gets so much more supportive and cordial. Actually the only people who are really rude about students’ college choices are the the parents, which is so absurd. Like grown up strangers who antagonize teenagers about where they’re going or not going to college? They just need to go away. Not my parents though, they’re so into my decision. They think it’s so rad and they’re whole mantra is “do what you feel is right”. I really wish more students had that, it’s so unfair that your own parents would berate your plans, I mean unless you’re doing something completely self destructive.
6) Why did you choose to do this instead of the "traditional" Uni route of college?
My decision came from 50% indecision and 50% getting in touch with my inner desires, I think. I mean I just have this sort of flexibility for my future or inherent rashness, one might say, that allowed my to constantly revise my plans until I got them right. I don’t feel like I’m forcing myself to “conform” or that I’m pushing the contradictory on myself. My decision feels 100% right for me right now and not that I’m saying everyone should boycott college, but everyone should be allowed time to think, without any constraints that they might have now, hard about what they want to do. And I mean what they want to do right now, not in ten years. Uni grads can be 16 to 19 at any age in between is too young to have to decide they’re whole future right now. Though on the other hand, some people might now right now exactly what they want to do forever, but either way there shouldn’t be so much pressure like “your life is going to end if you don’t do this”. Silly.
7) What are your fears with this experience?
I like to think that I don’t have any, but I think I’m just not thinking. It all sounds so gnarly right now and I’m so excited to start, but there’s definitely going to be some difficult adjustments like non-easily accessible electricity. I sounds so cool that I’m going to get to live in a tepee or yurt but when push comes to shove or whatever its probably going to be hard. Not the manual labor though, I only have to work 30 hours a week because both farms indulge in lots of play time.
8) What do you hope to gain from this experience?
Oh I have no idea. In North Carolina, I get to spend hands on time learning about environmental design, which is one of the many things I might want to study if I decide to go to college later, and fermentation and a whole booty load of great things. But in terms of something deeper, per se, let anything enlightening come as it may!
9) Do you have any advice for the juniors?
Stay in touch with your peers and what they’re doing throughout applying. I always found it reassuring to find someone who was doing the same thing I was or someone who had already filled out their U of I app, for example, to help me. Also talk to Lisa a lot, which everyone says, because everyone should because she is so so helpful. Make sure you only apply places you’d actually want to go, even fall back schools that you’re sure you won’t have to go to, just get yourself real jazzed about all the places on you list. Lastly, entertain all ideas you have about college, don’t rule anything out. I kept myself from applying to better schools because I was sure I wasn’t going to get in. But I realize this is the reverse for a lot of people, so don’t be afraid to apply to less “prestigious” schools even if you think your peers will think worse of you (because they really won’t, and even if they did, who cares) or your parents aren’t a fan because later you might be able to change their minds. That happens.
Remember to listen to your "inner-self" in regards to your wants, needs, happiness, etc. throughout the college process. Elenita paused and thought deeply about what she wanted, which all you juniors should do. Remember, this is your life and your decision.
-Celinda :]
PS, Thanks so much Elenita for taking the time to answer so thoroughly and so thoughtfully!
1) What are you up to next year?
Organic farming in two superb locations! I'm going to the Nantahalla Mountains, NC for four months then Maui, HI for four more. I could not be more psyched, I made the perfect decision for myself. I was initially going to do one year in one location but I am utterly incapable of making decisions so I just split up a year into semesters. Also I wanted summer ‘12 free because I don’t get to see people otherwise.
2) How do you stumble across this opportunity?
Well, long story. It has a lot to do with my being overly flexible in my life or somewhat rash, one might say. You see, in the very beginning, I was planning to go straight to college. So I was really excited and constantly looking for colleges that I thought would fit me and I visited them to make sure and such. Then I decided I need to take a gap year, which was no biggie, but I had to cut our any state schools on my list essentially. So I started applying and all and they were mostly all done when I realized that I hated every college on my list. I didn’t like the people or the places so I decided I’d do a year in Parkland Pathways then transfer to a place I’d like better. But then sometime in March, after I finished my Pathways application too, I remembered that I hate it here (which is not a dig at anyone who does, it all has to do with the individual, you know, and I happen to not function well in the CU).
At the this point I had to really think about what I like, which wasn’t hard, I like nice people and hate material goods. So a commune I was set on seeking. However, after only a week of online commune seeking I realized that about 70% of what I had seen were cults, and though I wanted to join two in particular, my parents were not enthused. But that was okay, because I noticed what also attracted me to those particular communes was their sustainable development, in particular, farms. So I then just stumbled upon growfood.org, the best website on the interweb perhaps. It’s great, just hundreds of farms. So at that point, planning next year was just gravy. I chose the farms that looked funnest.
3) What were your initial thoughts about the college process?
It completely overwhelmed me. I was not into the idea of trying to explain my essence to strangers in tiny essays and grades. I was convinced that no college, no matter how good the rest of my application, would accept me based on my lowly GPA. Of course, this is not true at all, but I was very self conscious of college admissions. I mean their job is just judging people based on very little and I hate that. Who doesn’t? But when it actually came down to putting my applications together, it wasn’t that bad at all. It’s so over-hyped but it’s really not that bad, I think people just like to scare applicants. That’s what’s up.
4) Did you feel supported by your peers during the process? Your family?
Well, honestly, I don’t talk to that many of peers. It’s not good, especially because it seemed like my class was really supportive of each other throughout the application process, I think most classes are. The people I talk to most, however, I generally against the whole systems for applying, and a lot of what we say is true, but it’s entirely unhelpful while you have to go though it.
My parents, on the other hand, I just lied to them a lot about my progress and didn’t tell them when I decided not to turn anything in, which was silly. They’re not pushy at all, it probably would have helped to keep them in the know a bit more. If they were pushy though, it probably would have been easier lying to them than having them on my butt the whole time.
5) Do you feel supported by your peers with your decision? Your family?
Oh I do! Everyone I tell about next year says something really positive and enthusiastic, which is nice. In general, students are always at least pleasant about others’ college plans. Sometimes younger classes get all sassy and say obnoxious things but they haven’t done it yet! Once students have everyone gets so much more supportive and cordial. Actually the only people who are really rude about students’ college choices are the the parents, which is so absurd. Like grown up strangers who antagonize teenagers about where they’re going or not going to college? They just need to go away. Not my parents though, they’re so into my decision. They think it’s so rad and they’re whole mantra is “do what you feel is right”. I really wish more students had that, it’s so unfair that your own parents would berate your plans, I mean unless you’re doing something completely self destructive.
6) Why did you choose to do this instead of the "traditional" Uni route of college?
My decision came from 50% indecision and 50% getting in touch with my inner desires, I think. I mean I just have this sort of flexibility for my future or inherent rashness, one might say, that allowed my to constantly revise my plans until I got them right. I don’t feel like I’m forcing myself to “conform” or that I’m pushing the contradictory on myself. My decision feels 100% right for me right now and not that I’m saying everyone should boycott college, but everyone should be allowed time to think, without any constraints that they might have now, hard about what they want to do. And I mean what they want to do right now, not in ten years. Uni grads can be 16 to 19 at any age in between is too young to have to decide they’re whole future right now. Though on the other hand, some people might now right now exactly what they want to do forever, but either way there shouldn’t be so much pressure like “your life is going to end if you don’t do this”. Silly.
7) What are your fears with this experience?
I like to think that I don’t have any, but I think I’m just not thinking. It all sounds so gnarly right now and I’m so excited to start, but there’s definitely going to be some difficult adjustments like non-easily accessible electricity. I sounds so cool that I’m going to get to live in a tepee or yurt but when push comes to shove or whatever its probably going to be hard. Not the manual labor though, I only have to work 30 hours a week because both farms indulge in lots of play time.
8) What do you hope to gain from this experience?
Oh I have no idea. In North Carolina, I get to spend hands on time learning about environmental design, which is one of the many things I might want to study if I decide to go to college later, and fermentation and a whole booty load of great things. But in terms of something deeper, per se, let anything enlightening come as it may!
9) Do you have any advice for the juniors?
Stay in touch with your peers and what they’re doing throughout applying. I always found it reassuring to find someone who was doing the same thing I was or someone who had already filled out their U of I app, for example, to help me. Also talk to Lisa a lot, which everyone says, because everyone should because she is so so helpful. Make sure you only apply places you’d actually want to go, even fall back schools that you’re sure you won’t have to go to, just get yourself real jazzed about all the places on you list. Lastly, entertain all ideas you have about college, don’t rule anything out. I kept myself from applying to better schools because I was sure I wasn’t going to get in. But I realize this is the reverse for a lot of people, so don’t be afraid to apply to less “prestigious” schools even if you think your peers will think worse of you (because they really won’t, and even if they did, who cares) or your parents aren’t a fan because later you might be able to change their minds. That happens.
Remember to listen to your "inner-self" in regards to your wants, needs, happiness, etc. throughout the college process. Elenita paused and thought deeply about what she wanted, which all you juniors should do. Remember, this is your life and your decision.
-Celinda :]
PS, Thanks so much Elenita for taking the time to answer so thoroughly and so thoughtfully!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
PCC College Decision: Stef
Hey!
I am so excited for two reasons. One, this is the 50th College Corner Blog (YAY)! Two, this is the long-awaited Stefanie Senior blog. I have to say that this was one of the most heartfelt, honest, and thoughtful pieces of writing I have read in a long time. I have enjoyed the past five years at Uni with Stef, and I wish the best for her at--well, why don't you just read and find out? :]
Dear Everyone and Everything:
I’M GOING TO PARKLAND.
On May 21, 2011, I’m going to graduate from University Laboratory High School- the alma mater of three Nobel laureates, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, an Academy Award winner, and an Olympic speed skater to name a few- and then I’m going to go to Parkland.
I’m telling you this for two reasons: The first is that I just received a theatre scholarship from Parkland, which will pay for tuition and fees of two years’ full-time study (!) and which requires me to do theatre (which I was going to do anyway, but now it will pay for school!) at Parkland.
The second reason I’m telling you this is that, in my five years at Uni, I’ve noticed a generally negative attitude towards Parkland (if I’m wrong here- and trust me, I’d love to be- correct me).
Especially in the past two years, since I’ve been going through the college process, I’ve noticed several cases of “or I could just go to Parkland”- I myself was guilty of it early on- and it’s something that I’d like to see changed, especially since I’m on the brink of beginning my education there.
Since beginning college talks with Lisa Micele, I heard over and over again that “Parkland is a good option”. I knew that Parkland was a good school (and not just for a community college), but somewhere in the back of my mind, I was thinking, “I hope it doesn’t come to that.” (Granted, that could have been because I wasn’t even considering staying in Illinois for college, but still.)
However, after my college apps went off, and my early-app friends started getting their outcomes back, I started to get anxious: What if I didn’t try hard enough? What if I don’t get in to this school or that school? Will everyone be disappointed in me? Will I have failed somehow? What if I do have to go to Parkland? I spent weeks and months like this; February may actually have been my least favorite month of senior year.
Then, in March, just as the college decision process was about to kick into high gear, Spring Break dropped in for a visit, and I shipped off to Arizona to visit my dad, uncle and grandparents (Fun fact: The ratio of bachelor’s degree to no degree is two and two- my grandpa and uncle vs. my grandma and dad). We all spent time talking about college, each family member giving me advice and sharing their thoughts about college. And then my dad gave me perhaps the single most useful piece of advice I’ve been given during the entire college process:
“Once you go apply for your third or fourth job, it’s going to be your job history and experience and not the name of your school that’s going to get you a job.”
At the time, I sedately agreed; but when I went back home and two weeks later started getting college letters, it became one of the only thoughts at the front of my mind. I was still a little disappointed at my outcomes (Accepted: Beloit College; Rejected: Georgetown, Yale, Notre Dame, Carnegie Mellon; Waitlisted: Bryn Mawr), but I realized I had options, and Parkland was one of them. As Parkland became a more and more serious option, my mom (who was also planning a triumphant return to school) and I began to look into financial aid and scholarships. I applied to Parkland (scarier than you might think), and then applied for financial aid as well as a theatre scholarship.
All this time, however, I was still having anxieties: Even though I was happy with the decision to go to Parkland, and I knew that my friends would be very supportive, I was still pretty embarrassed to make this news public. I kept having this mental image of the back of the graduation program: “Stefanie Senior, Parkland College, theatre”; and the reaction of my classmates’ parents: “Oh, that Stefanie Senior is going to Parkland? Is that the best she could do?” (I’m flattering myself to think that, post-high-school-graduation, any of my classmates’ parents will be talking about anyone or anything but their child’s completion of a major milestone, but this is how my mind works). I couldn’t stop carrying this image around in my head, so I asked Lisa Micele if we could have a meeting to go over my options and perhaps dispense some of my anxieties.
After the meeting, I felt a whole lot better. I was still a little unsure (though fairly certain) that I was going to Parkland, but I knew that I was more than likely not going to publish it on the first-floor map, in the Gargoyle, or on the back of the graduation program- the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ of college outcomes.
Then, Saturday (4/30), I came home from Anat/Phys class to a letter from Parkland. I wasn’t eager to read it, because I thought it may have just been something about missing documents or the completion of my concurrent enrollment- all college mail looks the same after a while. I picked up the letter and opened it, and when I pulled the contents out, I noticed that they were rather thick. I began to read.
“Dear Ms Senior,” it said. “Congratulations! You have been selected as a recipient of a Parkland College theatre scholarship.”
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Full tuition and fees for two years’ full-time study? Yes please!
And, in that moment- as cheesy as this sounds- my embarrassment was gone. I’m going to Parkland- they’re paying for me to do theatre and go to school! What more could a theatre kid ask for?
And I went on Facebook, and I published it for the world to see. Guess what? 21 “likes” and 8 comments- and most of them from Uni students.
So, Juniors (and your parents, if they’re reading): When you are going through your college process, if at any point you step back and say, “I don’t know what I want to do with the next year of my life, let alone four!” or “I don’t know what I want my major to be! I can’t even think about my career goals!” or “I don’t want to leave my parents!”, put Parkland on your college list. It doesn’t have to stay there- by the time you actually go submit your apps, you may have everything figured out- but keep Parkland in your mind, and don’t think of it as a last resort school. It’s a good option financially and educationally; and if you still have Ivy-League ambitions, you can transfer in once you’ve finished your associate’s degree. In fact, you may even have a better chance of getting admitted as a transfer than you did as an undergrad!
So, if you actually read this whole thing, kudos to you; if you pulled a “tl;dr” and only read the first and last bits, I leave you with this: Your self-worth is not solely dependent on your choice of college. Do what works for you, and throw everything else out the window.
You’ll feel a lot better when you do.
Love,
Stefanie
I am so excited for two reasons. One, this is the 50th College Corner Blog (YAY)! Two, this is the long-awaited Stefanie Senior blog. I have to say that this was one of the most heartfelt, honest, and thoughtful pieces of writing I have read in a long time. I have enjoyed the past five years at Uni with Stef, and I wish the best for her at--well, why don't you just read and find out? :]
Dear Everyone and Everything:
I’M GOING TO PARKLAND.
On May 21, 2011, I’m going to graduate from University Laboratory High School- the alma mater of three Nobel laureates, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, an Academy Award winner, and an Olympic speed skater to name a few- and then I’m going to go to Parkland.
I’m telling you this for two reasons: The first is that I just received a theatre scholarship from Parkland, which will pay for tuition and fees of two years’ full-time study (!) and which requires me to do theatre (which I was going to do anyway, but now it will pay for school!) at Parkland.
The second reason I’m telling you this is that, in my five years at Uni, I’ve noticed a generally negative attitude towards Parkland (if I’m wrong here- and trust me, I’d love to be- correct me).
Especially in the past two years, since I’ve been going through the college process, I’ve noticed several cases of “or I could just go to Parkland”- I myself was guilty of it early on- and it’s something that I’d like to see changed, especially since I’m on the brink of beginning my education there.
Since beginning college talks with Lisa Micele, I heard over and over again that “Parkland is a good option”. I knew that Parkland was a good school (and not just for a community college), but somewhere in the back of my mind, I was thinking, “I hope it doesn’t come to that.” (Granted, that could have been because I wasn’t even considering staying in Illinois for college, but still.)
However, after my college apps went off, and my early-app friends started getting their outcomes back, I started to get anxious: What if I didn’t try hard enough? What if I don’t get in to this school or that school? Will everyone be disappointed in me? Will I have failed somehow? What if I do have to go to Parkland? I spent weeks and months like this; February may actually have been my least favorite month of senior year.
Then, in March, just as the college decision process was about to kick into high gear, Spring Break dropped in for a visit, and I shipped off to Arizona to visit my dad, uncle and grandparents (Fun fact: The ratio of bachelor’s degree to no degree is two and two- my grandpa and uncle vs. my grandma and dad). We all spent time talking about college, each family member giving me advice and sharing their thoughts about college. And then my dad gave me perhaps the single most useful piece of advice I’ve been given during the entire college process:
“Once you go apply for your third or fourth job, it’s going to be your job history and experience and not the name of your school that’s going to get you a job.”
At the time, I sedately agreed; but when I went back home and two weeks later started getting college letters, it became one of the only thoughts at the front of my mind. I was still a little disappointed at my outcomes (Accepted: Beloit College; Rejected: Georgetown, Yale, Notre Dame, Carnegie Mellon; Waitlisted: Bryn Mawr), but I realized I had options, and Parkland was one of them. As Parkland became a more and more serious option, my mom (who was also planning a triumphant return to school) and I began to look into financial aid and scholarships. I applied to Parkland (scarier than you might think), and then applied for financial aid as well as a theatre scholarship.
All this time, however, I was still having anxieties: Even though I was happy with the decision to go to Parkland, and I knew that my friends would be very supportive, I was still pretty embarrassed to make this news public. I kept having this mental image of the back of the graduation program: “Stefanie Senior, Parkland College, theatre”; and the reaction of my classmates’ parents: “Oh, that Stefanie Senior is going to Parkland? Is that the best she could do?” (I’m flattering myself to think that, post-high-school-graduation, any of my classmates’ parents will be talking about anyone or anything but their child’s completion of a major milestone, but this is how my mind works). I couldn’t stop carrying this image around in my head, so I asked Lisa Micele if we could have a meeting to go over my options and perhaps dispense some of my anxieties.
After the meeting, I felt a whole lot better. I was still a little unsure (though fairly certain) that I was going to Parkland, but I knew that I was more than likely not going to publish it on the first-floor map, in the Gargoyle, or on the back of the graduation program- the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ of college outcomes.
Then, Saturday (4/30), I came home from Anat/Phys class to a letter from Parkland. I wasn’t eager to read it, because I thought it may have just been something about missing documents or the completion of my concurrent enrollment- all college mail looks the same after a while. I picked up the letter and opened it, and when I pulled the contents out, I noticed that they were rather thick. I began to read.
“Dear Ms Senior,” it said. “Congratulations! You have been selected as a recipient of a Parkland College theatre scholarship.”
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Full tuition and fees for two years’ full-time study? Yes please!
And, in that moment- as cheesy as this sounds- my embarrassment was gone. I’m going to Parkland- they’re paying for me to do theatre and go to school! What more could a theatre kid ask for?
And I went on Facebook, and I published it for the world to see. Guess what? 21 “likes” and 8 comments- and most of them from Uni students.
So, Juniors (and your parents, if they’re reading): When you are going through your college process, if at any point you step back and say, “I don’t know what I want to do with the next year of my life, let alone four!” or “I don’t know what I want my major to be! I can’t even think about my career goals!” or “I don’t want to leave my parents!”, put Parkland on your college list. It doesn’t have to stay there- by the time you actually go submit your apps, you may have everything figured out- but keep Parkland in your mind, and don’t think of it as a last resort school. It’s a good option financially and educationally; and if you still have Ivy-League ambitions, you can transfer in once you’ve finished your associate’s degree. In fact, you may even have a better chance of getting admitted as a transfer than you did as an undergrad!
So, if you actually read this whole thing, kudos to you; if you pulled a “tl;dr” and only read the first and last bits, I leave you with this: Your self-worth is not solely dependent on your choice of college. Do what works for you, and throw everything else out the window.
You’ll feel a lot better when you do.
Love,
Stefanie
Monday, May 2, 2011
Uni and the College Process
Hey Juniors!
I am super excited for some of the blogs coming up. As I already stated, Stef is going to do a blog about Parkland. We will also hear from the other PCCs and their college decisions. Also, Elenita agreed to be interviewed about her future plans--let me tell you, they are really cool!
Before any of these blogs however, I want to take a moment to discuss the climate at Uni and the college process. Today, I passed around a poll, with 30 senior responses. As I promised, it is anonymous. I asked them two questions about the college process:
1) Did you feel supported by your peers?
2) Did you actively feel judged at any point?
The second question had a very solid result:
3 people said No
27 people said Yes
What does that mean for the senior class? It means throughout the college process, most of the seniors have felt judged about a number of things including scores, colleges, final decision, rejections, and grades. One response said "especially applying to small, unknown, liberal arts schools". Another response was "snarkiness from a few people". A third one said "Especially with UIUC". Lisa was telling me of students who come in her office crying because they got into an Ivy League, only to be judged for it. What is going on here Uni kids?
It seems as if people are getting judged for going to UIUC, for not going to UIUC, for going to an Ivy League, for not going to an Ivy League, for looking at unknown, for looking at known--really, is anyone free from the judgment? Then, it occurred to me that 27 people said they felt judged. I estimate that if I polled the other 31 (myself not included) seniors, I would still have an overwhelming number of yeses. If everyone feels judged and they dislike it for the most part, then why is anyone judging others? Now, that is easier said than done, because it is human nature to judge. But, if one doesn't want to feel judged, then they shouldn't judge others. If person A agreed to stop judging person B, and person B agreed to stop judging person A, then judgment stops.
Juniors, I implore you to remember that each person has their own unique college process. Even the closest friends have different interests and needs. We are forging a new path for ourselves, whether it is college, abroad, or right here at home. Thinking about my friends, there's a few future doctors, an undecided, a businesswoman, engineers of all shapes and sizes, techies, English experts, etc. I myself am majoring in education. With so much variety, we must remember that each process and final decision is unique, and beautiful. We are at the crossroads, forming the people we want to be. We should be proud of each other, no matter WHERE we go.
For the first question, I got a mixture of responses:
I got some yeses
I got some occasionally's
I got some sometimes
I got some kind of's
I got a NEVER
I got some some/most of them's
I got a meh...
I got a sorta
I got a hell no
This data is harder to interpret because there are a myriad of answers. However, what can be said is in an ideal situation, all 30 responses would be yes. We are a social species. It is hard to survive without the group. So, instead of actively judging your peers or passively doing nothing, I propose the Class of 2012 actively supports each other. This is a long, arduous process. There will be celebrations, acceptances, successes, and breaths of relief. There will also be afflictions, rejections, failures, and sighs of disappointment. Support will be key in making sure you're okay when you're in our positions, mailing in deposits.
Here are some suggestions for support:
1) After a test, organize a picnic, bike ride, movie, or other fun activity
2) Refrain from bragging too much about your schools (remember, there is a fine line between your excitement/pride and hurting other people).
3) Keep your test scores to yourself, your college applications, and Lisa (PCCs only if you want to!). There's a reason you have to go through a security check before you can look at your scores.
4) Remember that your process is uniquely your own. Try not to look at other processes through the lens of your own process.
5) In January, try to celebrate finishing your college applications
6) Check your college decisions at home, not at school.
7) If you are asked about your college process and you aren't comfortable answering, just tell them you aren't telling people. Conversely, if you are asking someone about their college process and they don't feel comfortable answering, let it go and move on.
Remember Class of 2012, the climate of Uni won't change overnight. However, each person has the ability to make a small difference. Someday, hopefully, the collection of all those small differences can make a world of change.
-Celinda :]
(PS, thank you all seniors who participated in my poll!)
I am super excited for some of the blogs coming up. As I already stated, Stef is going to do a blog about Parkland. We will also hear from the other PCCs and their college decisions. Also, Elenita agreed to be interviewed about her future plans--let me tell you, they are really cool!
Before any of these blogs however, I want to take a moment to discuss the climate at Uni and the college process. Today, I passed around a poll, with 30 senior responses. As I promised, it is anonymous. I asked them two questions about the college process:
1) Did you feel supported by your peers?
2) Did you actively feel judged at any point?
The second question had a very solid result:
3 people said No
27 people said Yes
What does that mean for the senior class? It means throughout the college process, most of the seniors have felt judged about a number of things including scores, colleges, final decision, rejections, and grades. One response said "especially applying to small, unknown, liberal arts schools". Another response was "snarkiness from a few people". A third one said "Especially with UIUC". Lisa was telling me of students who come in her office crying because they got into an Ivy League, only to be judged for it. What is going on here Uni kids?
It seems as if people are getting judged for going to UIUC, for not going to UIUC, for going to an Ivy League, for not going to an Ivy League, for looking at unknown, for looking at known--really, is anyone free from the judgment? Then, it occurred to me that 27 people said they felt judged. I estimate that if I polled the other 31 (myself not included) seniors, I would still have an overwhelming number of yeses. If everyone feels judged and they dislike it for the most part, then why is anyone judging others? Now, that is easier said than done, because it is human nature to judge. But, if one doesn't want to feel judged, then they shouldn't judge others. If person A agreed to stop judging person B, and person B agreed to stop judging person A, then judgment stops.
Juniors, I implore you to remember that each person has their own unique college process. Even the closest friends have different interests and needs. We are forging a new path for ourselves, whether it is college, abroad, or right here at home. Thinking about my friends, there's a few future doctors, an undecided, a businesswoman, engineers of all shapes and sizes, techies, English experts, etc. I myself am majoring in education. With so much variety, we must remember that each process and final decision is unique, and beautiful. We are at the crossroads, forming the people we want to be. We should be proud of each other, no matter WHERE we go.
For the first question, I got a mixture of responses:
I got some yeses
I got some occasionally's
I got some sometimes
I got some kind of's
I got a NEVER
I got some some/most of them's
I got a meh...
I got a sorta
I got a hell no
This data is harder to interpret because there are a myriad of answers. However, what can be said is in an ideal situation, all 30 responses would be yes. We are a social species. It is hard to survive without the group. So, instead of actively judging your peers or passively doing nothing, I propose the Class of 2012 actively supports each other. This is a long, arduous process. There will be celebrations, acceptances, successes, and breaths of relief. There will also be afflictions, rejections, failures, and sighs of disappointment. Support will be key in making sure you're okay when you're in our positions, mailing in deposits.
Here are some suggestions for support:
1) After a test, organize a picnic, bike ride, movie, or other fun activity
2) Refrain from bragging too much about your schools (remember, there is a fine line between your excitement/pride and hurting other people).
3) Keep your test scores to yourself, your college applications, and Lisa (PCCs only if you want to!). There's a reason you have to go through a security check before you can look at your scores.
4) Remember that your process is uniquely your own. Try not to look at other processes through the lens of your own process.
5) In January, try to celebrate finishing your college applications
6) Check your college decisions at home, not at school.
7) If you are asked about your college process and you aren't comfortable answering, just tell them you aren't telling people. Conversely, if you are asking someone about their college process and they don't feel comfortable answering, let it go and move on.
Remember Class of 2012, the climate of Uni won't change overnight. However, each person has the ability to make a small difference. Someday, hopefully, the collection of all those small differences can make a world of change.
-Celinda :]
(PS, thank you all seniors who participated in my poll!)
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Coming Soon: An Avalanche of Blogs!
I deeply apologize for not writing any blogs recently. I lost my rhythm, I got lazy, and I have dropped the ball on my PCC duties. I hope you can forgive me :]. However, what I want to do with my few weeks of school left is to write blogs about my college decision, let the other PCCs write about their college decisions, and write about anything you're interested in. Of course, it's still April! National College Reply day is May 1st, so expect blogs this coming week! I'm really excited about the blogs coming up, so stay tuned, I will finish strong :]
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
30 days isn't THAT long...
Okay, okay. I've been gone for a month. One of those weeks was Agora Days (you juniors were great to work with by the way). The other three weeks I was discovering lost treasure, starring in a Broadway play (hey, the lead was sick, whatcha gonna do?), and discovering a dinosaur which I named Celindasaur.
...
Anyway, now that I am back, I promise to bring a ton of blogs. Like. Every. Day. (Note: not a real promise. I suck at promises). As I was making my A-Z list, I discovered I was having a lot of trouble coming up with clever college-related Js, Ks, and Ls. So, I decided I will skip to M, then come back to those, time-permitting.
Keep posted, I'm going to do a blog about Majors when I don't have a giant Genetics assignment :P
Happy Fourth Quarter everyone! And Ides of March!...
<3,
Celinda
...
Anyway, now that I am back, I promise to bring a ton of blogs. Like. Every. Day. (Note: not a real promise. I suck at promises). As I was making my A-Z list, I discovered I was having a lot of trouble coming up with clever college-related Js, Ks, and Ls. So, I decided I will skip to M, then come back to those, time-permitting.
Keep posted, I'm going to do a blog about Majors when I don't have a giant Genetics assignment :P
Happy Fourth Quarter everyone! And Ides of March!...
<3,
Celinda
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