Vice Provost for Enrollment & Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid
About
Students think of a "Dean" as the signature on a decision letter, someone like the Wizard of Oz: an idea more than a person. Well, here I am, emerging from behind the proverbial curtain! My insights are informed by my background: I was a first generation college student and need-based financial aid opened my door to opportunity. I attended a large high school that sent few to selective colleges. Advice was thin. I was largely on my own. My blog helps me reach those of you in a similar place.
Academic Program
B.A. History, Ed.M. Administration, Planning & Social Policy
Favorite Thing Right Now
Broadway HD, dog walks, creative banana bread and pasta recipes, Schitts Creek, The Daily, Mobituaries with Mo Rocca, Hacks On Tap, daffodils
Ready or not, the Candidates’ Reply Date has snuck up on us. It’s time to call the question: where will you enroll?
As I chatted with seniors (and their parents) over the last few weeks, most reported “the choice” was narrowed to two or three options. “How do I pick?” was a frequent refrain. It’s a fair question, and I’m guessing those whose enrollment remains “pending” at this late hour are wondering the same thing as the clock winds down to May 1.
In this understandable enrollment tug-o-war between your head and your heart, it’s time to follow your heart. You know what you want if you listen to your instincts. My best advice for the moment you face: don’t overthink it. Trust yourself.
As a college applicant, you’ve spent the last year in analytical mode. You’ve assessed and studied the various colleges and universities on your list. Any detail about a college that could be measured has been measured. (Trust me on this one.) I’d argue that a college shouldn’t be among your final options if it lacks the academic programs, faculty, resources and opportunities you seek.
Similarly, if affordability is your determining factor, the numbers you need to make an informed decision should be known to you. But if these numbers are fuzzy, CALL THE FINANCIAL AID OFFICE and ask for their guidance on this matter. Affording your undergraduate experience is a paramount question so this piece of data deserves your full attention over the next 36 hours.
But if the question of affordability has been answered, you have all the data you can collect.
Enter your heart. The emotional element of your college search counts, too, maybe now more than at any other moment in this journey of discovery. The analysis of facts and figures guided you to this penultimate moment of choice; your “pros and cons” list only gets you so far. Your heart whispers: “Can I see myself here?” It’s counseling you to imagine institutional fit, to own the place and the experience it offers. What’s the vibe? Does it feel comfortable to you? Will you thrive in its environment? Can you imagine yourself being happy?
Those are not insignificant questions. Each is deeply personal, and that’s why it feels challenging. Remember, there is not a correct or incorrect decision, just the one you make for yourself. Own your instinct. Be true to what’s important to you.
What’s your inner voice advising you to do? Listen to it as you reach the finish line of your college search. And—wherever it leads you—please share your news with us by 11:59PM on May 1. Good luck!
My personal visit to Dartmouth was a huge factor in my decision to apply, so in honor of Week 7, I hope this blog post can virtually illustrate some of what Dartmouth has to offer in seven images – worth 7,000 words!
Over the past year, I've talked a lot with prospective students. Picking college is a big deal, but if I knew what I do now, I'd still pick Dartmouth a dozen times over.
Recently, I've had the pleasure of talking to a few prospective students through Dartmouth Admissions. After sharing my experiences and fielding questions on virtual panels and high school visits, I'm reminded of my own college process.
From writing essays to preparing for interviews (while taking classes), it may seem like you're drowning in work. Despite all this, I learned a lot from my application process.
Need some inspiration for your personal statement? Look no further! This is the blog post for you, my friend. Come on in and see how a Dartmouth Admissions Officer responded to my questions about essay writing!
To those who may question whether applying is the right choice: yes! If you are looking for a sign to apply, this is it. Hear from a first-generation, low-income Chicana about why it's important to take a risk and apply.
