Luana Neves
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Don't Frame Your College Dreams!
Don't frame your college dreams! Frames are placed on paintings to make them immutable—behind a glass wall where they should never be changed. Don't do that to your dreams.
Coming from a big city, during my college search, I was fixated on keeping my urban way of life—going to a city populated by millions and with tall buildings you can barely see the top of. I couldn't imagine being happy in a place different from what I was already familiar with, and I framed my college dreams that way.
Spoiler alert: life had other plans for me. I chose a school so different from the urban setting I envisioned that it's known as "The Woods." Between hikes, bonfires, gorgeous scenarios, and lifelong friendships, I found my sense of belonging. Surprisingly, I am now here, in the middle of "The Woods," and I couldn't be happier.
It's scary to think I almost missed out on all of that. Dartmouth's supposed rural setting scared me away. But, due to a counselor's advice, I reluctantly took a second look. This time, leaving room in my search for more than the population number, I learned about this very supportive community and its strong school spirit. I was amazed by the campus's beauty, shocked at the academic opportunities, and impressed by the students' way of life. Suddenly, there I was, head over heels, waiting for Dartmouth.
So, here is my advice to you as you walk through this college search season: know your preferences, but leave a little room to be surprised. Your true happiness might not be in that dream you framed.
Who knew a big-city girl would ever call "The Woods" her home? Maybe you will too.
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