Joanna Jou
Reflecting on my Own College Search
If I told my freshman self where I would be going to college, she'd be stunned. Before my interest in Dartmouth expanded, I did not consider going to school so far from home, let alone in the middle of the woods of New England - probably the farthest region a Texas girl can end up in. I mean, a little bit over a year ago, I practically didn't even know my northeastern states; now, I guess you can call me an East Coast native… (just kidding, I'm still navigating my way through the myriad of states that can make up one whole Texas).
During the start of freshman year in high school, I thought I was set on one college particularly closer to home, which was not Dartmouth nor on the East Coast. However, this changed during the start of the pandemic my sophomore year. I distinctly remember one car ride with my mom while we were discussing some colleges I had in my mind. She said, "You don't have to just look at colleges close to home. Don't limit your college search just because you think we want you to stay close by; look at schools based on what they offer." At the end of this car ride, my mind said "SAY LESS". By the end of junior year, you can say I was a little directionless with where I was headed.
I often find myself looking for signs that'll lead me to realize what is meant for me. After my acceptance to Dartmouth Bound, a fly-in program offered to rising high school seniors that give participants a preview of life at the College, I began to look into Dartmouth's academia and the student/social life - the fact that Hanover is so beautiful was an excellent addition! Although my Dartmouth Bound experience was virtual due to the peak of the COVID pandemic, that didn't stop the Admissions Team from cultivating an enriching experience that solidified Dartmouth as my dream school. Not only did I learn more about campus life, academic offerings, and attended admissions and financial aid workshops, but I also met such unique and inspiring peers from all over the United States, some even becoming my best friends (and are also my closest friends here at Dartmouth). As I excitedly spoke about Dartmouth to my mom, I found myself talking about the college as if I was already Dartmouth '26 - was Dartmouth where I was meant to end up?
My great friend Maya (whom I met through Dartmouth Bound) once shared the quote "What is meant for you won't pass you." Throughout waiting for decisions, the most profound thoughts I still remember are how everything happens for a reason and the mentality of how if you truly want something, the whole universe will conspire in helping you achieve it (by novelist Paulo Coelho, and also my high school senior quote in honor of my college application process). I guess the biggest takeaway from this piece is: 1. Keep an open mind and 2. What's meant for you won't pass you!
Good luck on your college search journey and application process. I hope I'll see those reading this as future Dartmouth '27s soon!
Posts You Might Like
If you're an admitted student, Dartmouth chose you. Here's why you should choose Dartmouth, in my opinion.
At Dartmouth, there is an undergraduate requirement for language; after all, it is the liberal arts! Fulfilling this requirement looks different for various people and I will focus on my experience.
I have written about being a student worker plenty of times in the past, but I have yet to talk about one of my favorite jobs ever: ticket selling at the Hopkins Center for the Arts.
Congratulations to all the amazing, intelligent, passionate and outstanding members of Dartmouth's Class of 2028.
Why Dartmouth? I don't think it begins with the school—more so with who you want to be.
Finding solace and camaraderie in Dartmouth's unparalleled outdoor community.
Recently, I had the opportunity to take a trip to Cornell with the Dartmouth College Wind Ensemble (DCWE)!
Planning on visiting Dartmouth as a prospective student or an interested person wanting to see our beautiful campus? In this post, I share insider tips to ensure your visit is fulfilled!
When I was in high school, applying to college seemed to be the hardest and scariest thing. I had no clue what to expect at all. So, I decided to share my thought-process regarding choosing to go to Dartmouth!