Hello fellow CCers!
I know that many of you are anxiously awaiting college decisions. I remember being in your situation merely one year ago
having a near panic attack in class, obsessively counting down to that fateful 5:00 pm time, believing that my entire future rested on these fateful college decisions. Believe me; I understand how you feel.<br>
As some of you may have already figured out, I am currently a freshman in the Vagelos MLS program at the University of Pennsylvania. To be honest, Penn was far from my first choice. I absolutely abhorred the idea of attending an institution that is located in the ghetto of West Philly, dominated by conceited Whartonites, and often confused with Penn State. Instead, my dream colleges at the time were Princeton and Columbia. Therefore, when I read the words Im sorry to inform you
, I was absolutely devastated. At that moment, all I could think of was that all my hard work had been for nothing and that I was going to end up at some college that I didnt even want to apply to in the first place.
Now, nearly one year later, I honestly cannot imagine myself at any other college. I have come to love the diverse people of West Philly, the undeniable advantages that Wharton brings to even non-Whartonites, and the humorous NOT Penn State t-shirts worn around campus. I feel so fortunate to have to opportunity to interact with so many accomplished students and faculty members whom never fail to inspire me. Just a few days ago, I was sitting outside the Quad enjoying the 70 degree weather. As I looked around and observed the students tossing a Frisbee, the music playing from the balcony, and the great company of friends I had around me, I realized that I had chosen the right school.
The reason I am writing this is not to scold you for fretting over college admissions nor to promote Penn as an institution. Instead, I am here to reassure you that each and every one of you will find your dream school, whether or not it is the one you have in mind right now. No matter what happens at 5:00 pm, it is NOT the end of the world. Rather, it is a new beginning; college is such an exciting and life-changing opportunity and it is inevitable that you will find amazing friends, adventures, and memories wherever you attend. Finally, please do not allow college decisions to define you. You are defined by the intellectual vitality you bring to the classroom, the admirable leadership you provide to your peers, the number of lives youve touched through your volunteer work, and the inspiration you provide to all those around you. Please do not allow these accomplishments to be overshadowed by a mere college rejection.
With that being said, I would like to wish each and every one of you best of luck tomorrow! You guys are such an amazing and accomplished group of individuals and I have no doubt that you will achieve success regardless of your college choice.