June 26, 2017
In what grade did you come to MPA? 2nd
How did you come to choose the college that you did?
The University of Notre Dame had been my dream school since before I can remember. My grandfather attended the university and, partially as a result, is living out a long and fulfilled life. His son, my father, was the one who really got me into Notre Dame football and the spirit of the university as a child. After my freshman year at MPA, I made the decision to attend a two-week summer program for architecture at the University of Notre Dame and absolutely loved it. Ever since then, I have been anticipating my return.
What are you most excited about as you embark on your college experience?
What I most look forward to in the next few years of my life is the adventure. I have always anticipated branching out after graduation, which made the college hunt all the more exciting for me. One thing that has always interested me is the study of architecture. So personally, this makes studying architecture at the University of Notre Dame a thrilling opportunity. This in combination with Notre Dame football and basketball games have me very excited to say the least.
What did you appreciate most about the college counseling process at MPA?
At Mounds Park Academy, no student ever seems to be left behind in all aspects of our education including the college search process. Anyone who seeks out extra help can find it in abundance. My meetings with Mrs. Pederson were invaluable and helped me focus my interests into a list of schools that I knew would shape some of the happiest years of my life regardless of which one I chose. Another thing that I particularly appreciated about MPA’s college counseling process was the head start I feel I received in relation to my peers at other schools.
What about your MPA experience has best prepared you for college?
The independence certainly has played a role. However, more importantly, I believe the frequent communication with teachers has prepared me well for even the professional world where one is expected to effectively communicate with others every day. Whether it be by email or one-on-one meetings, I feel prepared for college and beyond from a communications standpoint.
What is your advice for the Class of 2029 (kindergartners)?
Broaden your horizons. Try a little bit of everything. If you don’t end up finding your passion along the way, stay a little involved in many things and become a renaissance man/woman. I feel I have made it further by showing many mild talents than I would have had I flaunted one particular interest, and I feel I have had more fun along the way.
Insights from Ms. Pederson, Director of College Counseling:
It was fun to work with Chad as we built a college list that focused on strong universities in the southeast and northwest parts of the country. Ultimately, he had several great options that incorporated great campus life and school spirit with the academic programs he wanted to pursue. Accepted at the majority of those schools, Chad initially chose to enroll at University of Georgia; he proudly sported Bulldog gear and created his pennant for the board at school. However, his process took an exciting turn in mid-May when Notre Dame called to offer him a spot off the wait list. Chad was thrilled to accept, and this fall he will continue to cheer for the Irish from the stands as a Notre Dame student. It has been a treat to see Chad’s college dream come true!
The 54 members of the Class of 2017 were offered admission to 113 different colleges/universities in 31 states, Washington D.C., and Canada. They will attend 33 different colleges/universities in 14 states. Learn more about MPA’s College Counseling program here! >
