Choosing the Right College
Connecticut College: Choosing the Right College
Q: Why did you decide on Connecticut College?
I visited lots of colleges, and Connecticut College was the last one I saw. It was really a feeling I got from being on campus and going on a tour. I was walking around and I could really see myself here. I think the most important thing was that even though the tour guides didn’t know us, they really wanted us all to come to the school because they loved being here so much. It was one of those gut feelings where I just knew this was the place for me.
Q: What is your sense of the students here?
It’s been really easy to meet people, make friends and get along with so many different kinds of people. One of the things I love about Connecticut College is that you are exposed to interesting people from around the country and world. Everyone here has something special about him or her or some talent, something that makes them more than just a good student. It makes meeting people and talking to them exciting.
Q: How do you like your classes?
I feel really lucky to be in a theater freshman seminar. It’s great because I have the chance to get to know people in a more artistic and interactive way. I’m also in a government class that I took as a requirement, but it’s been kind of unexpected how much I’ve enjoyed it. It’s an American government class, so it has been really useful and relevant in just everyday life, and I find myself concerned with issues I hadn’t thought about before.
Q: Have you gotten to know any of your professors?
My freshman seminar teacher Leah Lowe is really great at advising students. She helped relieve a lot of stress for me about classes. MaryAnne Borelli teaches my government course, and she is very approachable with problems. I never feel like I can’t ask a question for any reason.
Q: Are you involved in any extracurricular activities?
I’m involved in the SISTER mentoring program, and it’s one of the best choices I’ve ever made. At first it was really difficult working with the girls and trying to get used to life at school, but I’m so proud to have kept with it. It’s been so rewarding. The girls will come up to me and give me hugs when I see them now.
Q: Has anything about Connecticut College surprised you?
I didn’t realize how important the Honor Code is. It is visible and prevalent everywhere and not just a selling point for admissions. If I left my purse in Harris, no one would touch it, and when professors leave the room during exams, no one says a word. It’s one of the reasons I feel so comfortable on campus. Everyone takes it very seriously.
Q: Do you know what you’d like to major in?
I still put down “undecided” when I get asked. I’ve been considering human development, but I’m also going to be taking a psychology class next semester and that sounds really interesting. And actually, government might be a possibility too because I’ve enjoyed it so much this semester.
Q: Do you have any advice for applicants in the college search process?
I think it’s most important to take your time and examine all the options alone. Don’t let your parents or friends decide for you because the only way you’ll figure out what is best for you is to think about what you value most in a school. It’s hard to figure out what’s most important, but try to think about it and do your research. Everyone I’ve met who’s happy with their schools has known what to expect when they got there.
Q: If there is one thing people should know about Connecticut College, what is it?
The best part about the school is that it allows you to change and grow while you’re here. You’re not stuck going down any one path and you’re not restricted in any way. I think that’s great when you’re a senior coming out of high school with no real idea of what you want to do. Connecticut College allows you to figure it out and supports you all the while.
Learn more about:
