The fall semester of 2011 was a busy semester; while everyone was debating between scary or sweet costumes, I was debating on whether or not I wanted to attend college. As September was winding down, the pressure to apply to college was hovering over my shoulders like a ghost in the night! I remember researching Illinois Wesleyan University and thinking, “Man, this university is never going to accept someone like me into their school.”
Now that I think of it, saying someone like me was a fear within itself. I never thought I was smart enough to attend Illinois Wesleyan University; that only the smart suburban kids would be accepted. But once I took the first step and asked for information I quickly realized that, that was not the case at all. Sure, Illinois Wesleyan accepts those who meet the academic qualifications, but they also accept students who portray personality characteristics that are larger than any standard test result could determine. As I met with my admissions counselor, Nancy Vasquez, she showed me that Illinois Wesleyan could be my school if I chose, despite academic setbacks. If you are reading this blog I’m sure you are looking for some advice, so here is some advice that my counselor told me!
You’re a winner! Applying to college is a project within itself and since you have considered college as an option, you have already decided to have a positive outlook on your life.
Your GPA and ACT scores do NOT define you! My scores, although excellent for my high school and only adequate according to Illinois averages, do not define me. I am so much more than can be gleaned from a review of my paper record; I believe I have a dynamic personality and charming nature that are difficult to capture in a transcript or standardized test score. I’m sure the same is true for you, as well.
So, sit down, take a deep breath, and continue on those college applications that have been sitting on your desk for a week!! Wait, it’s Halloween, get some candy first, then continue your applications! Happy Halloween!!!!!
-Cynthia