May 31, 2020
As the 2019–20 school year comes to an end, we’re sharing the college choice stories of the Class of 2020!
In what grade did you come to MPA?
I came to MPA as a freshman in high school. I ended up meeting the best classmates ever (Class of 2020!) and created friendships from different age groups. MPA truly gave me opportunities to thrive as a student and to share my passions with those around me. I have made eternal memories that will be forever cherished.
How did you come to choose the college that you did?
Carleton College was one of my top reach schools on my college list and I was fortunate enough to be admitted. It has an incredibly diverse community alongside with an academically challenging environment. Carleton College is also very close to my own home. Meaning that I can go home easily and grab what I need in the cities. I am extremely excited to join Carleton College as it was a very pleasant surprise to find out that I had been admitted after the “official” Decision Day on May 1. I hope I can make new friends as I did the same in MPA and be able to pursue my career goals.
What are you most excited about as you embark on your college experience?
I am most excited about the experience of being independent. I cannot wait to be able to spread my wings and indulge myself into new experiences in college whether it would be joining the many clubs in my college or exploring the city of Northfield. I am also very eager to meet new people and make new memories with them.
What did you appreciate most about the college counseling process at MPA?
From my personal experience with the college counseling process at MPA, I felt very confident in my college plans and choices. Ms. Pederson’s meetings were extremely useful, especially since I am the eldest daughter of an immigrant household and that it is the first time my family has ever gone through the American college application process. Thank you Ms. Pederson! And thank you to Ms. Kaltved for always updating scholarship opportunities!
What about your MPA experience has best prepared you for college?
To best summarize my MPA experience, I would say that MPA has taught me how to tackle problems and to always follow my passions and dreams. If it were not for MPA’s warm community, I would have never been able to found the Asian Culture Club or even dare to join the Student Council Executive Board team. Trying new things at MPA allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and to gain more self-confidence. With these newfound skills, I feel prepared to be independent in college!
What is your advice for MPA’s Class of 2032 (kindergartners)?
It is okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. Smart people aren’t smart. They are hard workers.
The 53 members of the Class of 2020 plan to attend 41 different colleges and universities in 18 states, Washington D.C., Canada, and Australia. See their destinations here. Learn more about MPA’s College Counseling Program here!
