Cece HawleyAs 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 in PreK.

How did you come to choose the college that you did?

I was pretty set on one school that I had gotten into through applying early action. When I saw that I got into Wesleyan University through regular decision, I was really excited. The open curriculum is definitely something that attracted me to the school, but the most important thing to me was that the people there were very welcoming and supportive of me. They never failed to reach out and help with any questions I had about Wes.

What are you most excited about as you embark on your college experience?

I am super excited to make more connections and have more experiences. Being at MPA my entire life, I have been able to know people from the young age of five. It will be super cool to go to an entirely new place and meet new people.

What did you appreciate most about the college counseling process at MPA?

The college counseling team is spectacular! Because they start the process in 9th grade, they are able to see you grow and develop as a person. Also, because of the small community they are able to see us as a whole student who participates in theatre, sports, or extracurricular activities. They are always willing to help with questions on essays, applications, or resumes. They celebrate the moment you submit all the way to the moment you open your decision letter.

What about your MPA experience has best prepared you for college?

I think learning how to talk to my teachers has been a major part of the MPA experience. In college, you need to take initiative, and that is what MPA has always promoted. I’ve also learned that there will be opportunities presented to you, and you need to take them! From guest speakers to public speaking assignments, I have had the opportunity to enrich myself by taking hold of what MPA offers us. I feel like that is the same for college; you are the only person who can take opportunities, they can’t be handed to you.

What is your advice for MPA’s Class of 2032 (kindergartners)?

To the class of 2032, be kind to your peers. One day, you will need them. You must care for one another because, like it or not, they are your family now. You will grow together and please cherish those moments. If I have learned one thing this year it is that you never know when your moments will be taken from you. I am able to look back on my entire experience at MPA and smile because I know that I have been able to spend it with my peers. Take advantage of everything that is given to you, have fun, and have no regrets because everything can change in one moment.

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!

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