We are thrilled to share the highlights from our recent university presentations on September 14, 2024. Representatives from Dartmouth, Duke, Georgetown, Northwestern, and Vanderbilt visited our school, offering invaluable insights into their programs and campus life. Their presence enriched our understanding of the diverse opportunities available to our students.

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE

Erin Burnett, Associate Director of Admissions, introduced us to Dartmouth’s unique blend of a small, rural environment and a robust academic offering. Nestled in New Hampshire, Dartmouth provides a dynamic four-season experience with extensive outdoor activities, from skiing to organic farming. As a liberal arts college with strong research programs, Dartmouth emphasizes a personalized educational journey with a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio. They meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, ensuring accessibility for all.

DUKE UNIVERSITY

Anne Sjostrom, Associate Dean, highlighted Duke’s future-facing and dynamic environment in Durham, North Carolina. Duke offers flexibility in academic paths, with 437,989 possible combinations of majors. The concept of “Flunch” encourages faculty-student interaction, fostering a supportive learning atmosphere. Duke’s commitment to research and innovation is evident in their $1 billion annual funding, providing students unique opportunities to engage in projects early in their academic careers.

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY

Heather Kim, Associate Director of Admissions, shared Georgetown’s rich history and Jesuit values, emphasizing community service and social justice. Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown offers a compact campus with access to numerous internship opportunities in politics, business, and more. Their vibrant speaker series and proximity to major cultural landmarks make it a hub for engaged learning.

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

Sofia Bening, Assistant Director of Admission, presented Northwestern’s ethos of innovation, collaboration, and exploration. Situated in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern offers a balance of a college town feel with proximity to Chicago’s vast resources. With a strong emphasis on community and interdisciplinary studies, Northwestern encourages students to explore diverse academic interests and participate in research and internships.

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

Philip Morabito introduced us to Vanderbilt’s vibrant residential community in Nashville, Tennessee, known as “Music City, USA.” With a focus on diverse perspectives and experiential learning, Vanderbilt encourages students to engage with the city’s cultural and professional opportunities. Their Immersion Project requires students to participate in hands-on learning, fostering practical skills and personal growth.

COUNSELLOR INSIGHTS

Before the presentations, our counselors met with the university representatives to discuss what these institutions are looking for in students. They emphasized the importance of passion and the ability to share that passion. We also discussed the topic of AI-written essays, and the universities expressed their disapproval, as they said they cannot hear the student’s unique voice when it’s written by AI. They noted that essays written by AI tend to sound similar and often contain recognizable keywords. We will ensure that our students are aware of this valuable information.

Each of these universities offers distinct environments and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit for each student. We hope this information helps guide your discussions about future pathways.