Should I reach for Ivy League schools?
I'm first-generation and minority with parents that don't speak English. If I were to reach for such advanced institution, I will be promising a better future for my descendants... right?
Do I really want to overwhelm myself in High School in an attempt to get accepted to one of these schools? Is it worth it? Or should I go to a smaller school and relax a bit more during my teenage years?
#college #college-admissions
2 answers
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Adrian, College is very important for opening up opportunities for your future. However, it isn't necessary to go to an Ivy League school to be successful and have a better future for your descendants. Focus on what you are interested in, and do your very best at that. Strive to go to a college that is strong for what subjects you are interested in for a future career. Study hard in high school, but don't stress too much! Best of luck!
Nicole’s Answer
Hope you will allow me to adjust your question just a bit..."should I reach...?" Yes. Agreed that the branding and early influence that having an Ivy League school degree as part of your educational journey is a plus but not a must.
I will share that I went to a pretty small (by today's standards) public high school. I had no vision of attending an Ivy League school...until I did. I had pretty good grades for most of my school years, loved math and had always been a curious learner. It wasn't until I confirmed for myself that I wanted to get an engineering degree that I even considered an Ivy League school. The confirmation of "what I wanted to be" was probably the end of my sophomore year in high school. I mention this because my efforts in high school weren't driven by the college I wanted to go to. They were driven by my desire to do my very best in my classes. The college application process would then take care of itself.
So I encourage you and others to reach. You will be amazed (hopefully pleasantly amazed) at what is available to you and how reaching will benefit you throughout your education and career-building journey.
Best of luck to you!