“I am so thankful for all of the opportunities available to me thanks to my Odyssey Scholarship.”
How did you learn about UChicago? When did you first know that UChicago was the right college for you?
I first learned about the University of Chicago at a college fair where four other colleges presented. Originally, I attended the fair to learn more about Stanford and UPenn, but I remember telling my mom after the fair that out of all the schools UChicago stood out to me the most. I was really drawn to the Core at UChicago because I wanted to continue exploring a variety of subjects before deciding on my major. I also really appreciated the opportunities uniquely available to students at UChicago, including Metcalf internships, Foreign Language Acquisition Grants, and Career Treks. When I visited the University through a fly-in program, I connected with the students and culture on campus and finally knew that UChicago was where I wanted to attend college.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned since arriving on campus?
One of the most important things I’ve learned since arriving on campus is that it is okay to feel out of my element. At first I was very intimidated by my other classmates and also by the rigor of the courses. But I quickly learned that everyone feels this way in the beginning. Once I adjusted to the College, I learned to enjoy participating in class discussions and learning from all of my classmates.
What has your UChicago experience been like outside of the classroom?
Outside of the classroom, I spend a lot of my time working for the Neighborhood Schools Program as a teacher’s assistant at Carnegie Elementary School. Currently, I work in a first grade classroom as well as a Pre-K classroom. Aside from NSP, I also spend a lot of time with members of my house, either through intramural sports, house activities, or simply talking in the lounge or dining hall. The house system provided me with an immediate community upon entering the College. Through NSP and other activities, I’m expanding this community and interacting with the greater Hyde Park area.
If you could speak directly to the person whose gift supported your scholarship, what would you say?
I would not be at the University of Chicago without my scholarships. The support given to my family has enabled me to go to my dream school, study on a beautiful campus, and meet so many amazing people that I couldn’t imagine not knowing. I am so thankful for all of the opportunities available to me thanks to my Odyssey Scholarship. Through the Odyssey Metcalf Internship Program, I’ve also secured a summer internship in Guatemala this summer that I’m really excited for. Thank you for everything.
