What was your SAT and Subject Tests prep strategy?
Originally I joined a coaching class, which I thought was quite really a waste of my time. The best test prep would be to do more papers. For English you should ask for help from your school English teacher. She would be happy to make some questions for you or check where you’re going wrong in your passages.
What did you find most challenging about the college app process?
Trying to balance the school course work along with the application. Since I was in ISC nothing we did in school really give us an advantage for the majors we take in college. For any sort of credit we would have to put an extra effort.
How did your college list change over time?
The first thing that I did in my list making process was to write down a bunch of college names. Then by reading reviews I determined if the college was right for me. Then I factored in my academic record and the list changed further. Then my parents had a certain viewpoint regarding the size or cost and the list changed again. In 2012 my list had deviations every month, but I am glad it did because it resulted in a perfect college list at the end of the day.
What advice would you give future applicants?
The three most important things that any student has to do before selecting colleges is
- Ask their parents how much they can afford per annum. Make sure you know EXACTLY how much they can, other wise you would be changing your college list every month (like me)
- Don’t be blinded by the popularity a university has in India. Small liberal arts colleges that you might have not heard of are just as good because of the personalized attention they offer and the post grad college placements they end up getting you.
- Buy the Fiske’s Guide to colleges and be sure to buy the current version. It truly is a college selection bible
What are you looking forward to the most in college?
Exploring a different and independent approach to education, playing sports and meeting different people
What major/s are you considering?
I am considering Biology and Psychology.
What excites you about the courses you'll sign up for?
Seeing the way the college would approach the major and the amount of research work I might be able to do.
What are your plans for summer?
I am in search for internships and volunteer work around Delhi, but apart form that I plan to continue my photography excursions.