Why I Chose Barnard During Early Decision

My college application process was a bit untraditional in that I studied abroad my junior year and only seriously began the process during the summer before my senior year. I only heard about Barnard during that same summer and added it to the list of schools I was going to visit in August. Coming from the West Coast, doing a college trip during the humid East Coast summer was quite the undertaking, but I felt particularly grateful to have the chance to visit these schools in person. 

I’m quite the “vibe” person, so touring campuses and getting a chance to speak with students was integral to my college application process. (In the virtual world, our Admissions Office has adapted so there are still a number of ways to engage with current students and admissions staff!) 

As soon as I stepped onto Barnard’s campus, I had a weird feeling that something about this college was different. I couldn’t grasp it yet but after my tour, thoughts about Early Decision instantly began swirling around my head. I loved how confident and comfortable the tour guide seemed on campus and even during the summer when few students were around, I could feel the sense of love they had for Barnard.

For me, as well as for many of my friends and peers, the community was a major reason for choosing to apply Early Decision. As a historically women’s college, Barnard centers the experiences of women and champions women’s success at every stage. This mission statement resonated deeply with me, as someone who attended a co-ed high school but was interested in a new community experience. From my interactions with students on campus during my tour to getting to engage with admissions staff and current students throughout the application process, I was drawn to how they all spoke of Barnard. Each in unique ways, of course, and that’s what felt so magical. I could come to the school and explore who I wanted to become with the support and warmth of an entire community. 

Barnard’s liberal arts curriculum was another point that drew me in. I had a loose idea of what I might want to study, but I knew I wanted a chance to explore before committing to a specific major. Three semesters in, I’ve been exposed to so many cool departments on campus and actually changed my mind from what I initially thought I might want to study! Being part of a smaller community was also high on my list, since I went to a tiny high school and really enjoyed knowing everyone around me. While I don’t know every single person in the student body, I know I can wave to anyone and they’ll wave back which is a comforting feeling. Not only does being at a smaller college mean that I can comfortably interact with anybody, but it’s also extremely integral to my academic success. 

I also saw a lot of my personal philosophy reflected in the student body, as best as I could gather this between limited interactions and information available online. The culture of action-oriented political engagement was enticing and I deeply appreciated that everyone embraced their uniqueness while also being a part of something bigger. 

Choosing to apply Early Decision isn’t a decision I came to lightly, but one that made sense for me! While it isn’t for everybody, I am so glad senior-year me trusted her instincts and took the leap.