Where are you applying? What do you want to study? How many applications are you sending out? When are you hearing back?

Questions streamed on and on. I remember being overwhelmed by the college admissions process because of such probing questions. My peers viewed it as a competition or an invitation to be nosy. I then realized that college was a stage in my personal academic journey; no one else’s inquisitiveness and judgment mattered. In order to streamline my application process so I could wholeheartedly focus on my self-worth and interests, I decided to consider early decision (ED). I have never looked back!

I wasn’t familiar with the term “early decision” at first. I began the college process amidst the pandemic, perusing web pages about major programs and campus life. I was dead set on pursuing art school for a while. I was even on the cusp of applying after pouring time into developing a portfolio because I knew I couldn’t forgo my love for drawing. Then I was worried about leaving behind my dedication to English as a subject since I cherished creative writing and literary analysis. All of this confusion begged the question: What is my calling?

The answer? Communication. Once I came across Cornell’s department webpage for Communication, I quickly learned that my passion for art can be traced back to a love for creativity. My inclination towards English is rooted in a hunger for expression. I was totally consumed by how messages are developed, transmitted, and perceived—this is what Cornell’s Department of Communication embodied.

Whether I wanted to pursue research, media, journalism, policy, or even design, I could flourish in every avenue here. Not to mention, Cornell checked off all my boxes, such as school size and distance from home. My newfound fascination with the college demonstrated that early decision was the optimal route to take.

By choosing this path, I knew I’d be able to relieve a lot of the pressure surrounding the college process. No matter the result, I could gather myself and move towards other institutions if necessary.

Fortunately, applying early decision was a testament to my enthusiasm for Cornell. When I received my acceptance letter in December, I was overjoyed! With the weight off my chest, I was able to connect with fellow ED admits and form a close-knit group of friends before coming to campus. In my leisure time, I found myself browsing what clubs, opportunities, and classes drew me in. Most importantly, the acceptance gave me the boost of self-confidence and motivation to power through senior year's struggles online and finish strong!

If you feel that buzz, that pull toward a school unlike no other, I hope you pursue early decision!