New Firsts
Wednesday was my first Matriculation Day at Tufts. No, that’s not actually true. It was my first as the dean of admissions, and it was a truly wonderful day! Seeing our new students begin to settle into their roles as new Jumbos marks the beginning of a marvelous journey.
I have always loved the start of a new school year (Can't you tell I'm seriously excited in that picture?). Maybe it’s because I’m a September baby, or because I look forward to the changing of the seasons. But I think it’s mostly because I enjoy the excitement that a new school year brings. When I was a kid, I can remember waking up early on the first day of school, excited to meet my new teacher and classmates, yet just a little bit scared of what the new year would bring.
September, to me, is a month of new beginnings and opportunities, and I’m particularly excited THIS September as I step into the role of dean of admissions. While I’m not new to Tufts (this marks my ninth year on the Hill), this role is new to me. The summer has been busy as I ramp up my knowledge of “deanly” things, and now the excitement of what lies ahead has set in. I’m ready to get out on the road to meet students and counselors and to share a little bit of Tufts with you. And my request of you when we meet? Don’t be shy - share with me what excites you most about the prospect of college, and then harness that same energy as you prepare your supplemental questions for us. My colleagues and I want to know about you and the things in life that make you take notice.
If we don’t have the chance to meet in person, I hope that you’ll continue to check in on this blog – my hope is to share my thoughts and insights on making it through this process with humor and grace. While it’s been a “few” years since I applied to college, the anxiety that comes with applying to college hasn’t changed much. Our goal is to make this time for you as painless as possible.
Start thinking about the things that make you YOU and how you will convey that through your application. Take a deep breath…now GO!
Feature image used through Creative Commons license from ThoseGuys119 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/thoseguys119/12869686933/)