Jessica - Wellesley College - Class of 2013

I see myself as both an artist and a student of science. I knew that I would have to make a decision between the two. I wanted schools that would accommodate my dilemma and offer me opportunities that would help me decide.

A name-brand college with the following qualities, please

I started my college search early, but when it came time to apply, I realized I was looking at colleges based only on their fame. I needed to understand the specific college qualities that would best suit me. After some introspection, I decided to pursue both the arts and the sciences. I realized that I was constantly asking questions in class and needed close access to my teachers. I also needed a location where I could take courses at other colleges and easily find internships. I considered both universities and liberal arts colleges that met all these needs. I tried to filter out the prestige of a school, but I also believed that a college is famous for a reason. Name brand remained a large factor in my decision-making.

Wellesley comes into play

In truth, I was sure that I would be going to USC. I loved the fact that it was in L.A. I thought it would be perfect for studying both art and science. And I was thrilled to receive a half-ride scholarship. To be honest, Wellesley was not a school that pulled me in. I thought I might flounder academically. In the end, however, I realized its location outside Boston offered many opportunities, such as cross-registering at MIT for neuroscience courses. I was also won over by its small classes. I want to feel comfortable voicing my thoughts and asking seemingly pointless questions without being too embarrassed. The fact that it is an all-women's college was intimidating at first, but I realized that, after a night on the town in Boston, I would be coming back to a huge family of girls where I would feel at home and completely relaxed.

Another factor was campus visits. I was so pulled by California, sun, and the idea of a dynamic city right at my doorstep. However, I am someone who likes peace and quiet, the woods, walks in the evening, and being able to let my guard down. Visiting Wellesley's 500-acre woodland campus helped me visualize myself at the school and ended up being extremely helpful.

My ups and downs

High school wiped me out, plus I had a lot of personal issues. By the end, I was drained. I look forward to college as a fresh start to rejuvenate my enthusiasm for understanding humanity and the world around us. I want to have an actual social life other than Facebook. I know that I am going to meet so many people from different walks of life who all have a story to share. I want the relationships I form in college to make me a better person so I can give back to the world all it has given to me so far.

What I learned

I underestimated myself. I could have broadened my horizons, trusted my abilities, and applied to some more schools. I played it a little safe, and I wish I hadn't. I didn't want to be disappointed and I didn't want to be overwhelmed with applications to fill out.

The application process seems hard while you're in the middle of it, but it flies by. Plan early, find out what you might want to do, get an idea of who you are as a person, figure out what kind of student you are, and view the application process as just a way for the admissions people to get to know you. No matter what, you will succeed.

I also got significant advice from relatives who had gone from rags to riches and truly knew the pathway to success through academics. They said that the most important thing is not just learning the material, but learning how to learn and learning to have passion for discovery.

The money factor

I received grant money, student loans, scholarships, and work-study. My parents and family will be paying for the remaining amount. My father works for a bank, and in this time of economic hardship, I wanted to make a fiscally responsible choice. At times, I still look back at the money USC offered me and I hear a small voice questioning whether I should have just taken that money. However, I believe that with hard work, Wellesley's prestigious name and alumni network can truly pay off for me in the future.