I'm still a High School Junior, but I cannot wait to start the College Admissions Process. I still have so much in front of me- my ACT's, SAT's, Senior Year, internships, college visits, nevertheless, the actual applying part! My High School years have been some of the best of my life, but I know my college experience will be even better. All of my older friends, social media, and even several television shows have enhanced my excitement for my potential college experience, and I tend to be spending a lot more time on elite college's websites than I probably should be spending. I try my best to organize myself, but as all college students probably know, the process is really stressful and full of pressure, although it will be extremely worthwhile. Today, I'm excited to share with you a list of elite colleges that I simply cannot wait to apply to-and hopefully get accepted into!
1. Syracuse University
Syracuse University might be located in one of the coldest cities of the Northeast, but their programs, both athletic and academic, are absolutely top of the par. Their sports teams are some of the best in the country, and draw forth waves of Orange to support 'Cuse! The Newhouse School of Journalism and Communications is one of the best in the country- the building is incredibly unique, modern, and sleek. Not only is Newhouse advanced technologically, but it is beautiful. With a 48% acceptance rate, 'Cuse is difficult to get into, but it's a hopeful opportunity for a dedicated, passionate student. Any student would be extremely lucky and happy to get educated at Syracuse!
2. University Of Southern California
A Trojan for life, I'm obsessed with USC and have been since I discovered this elite University. With several amazing schools- colleges of unique programs like music, film, engineering, and communications- USC has so much to offer the ambitious student. Located in sunny Los Angeles, California, USC is part of a city much larger than itself. So Cal offers so many opportunities to students and has such incredible departments, in both Academics and Athletics. USC produces more Olympians than any other University- their track and field team is composed of the best recruits in the country, and their Alumni go forth to become some of the most decorated in Olympic History. Take Allyson Felix for example, a three time world champion and double Silver Medalist in Olympic sprinting. Keep in mind, however, USC doesn't mess around when it comes to Academics, either. USC is one of the country's most difficult colleges to get into- this year, only 13% of applicants were accepted.
3. Pennsylvania State University
Penn State has got the other schools beat intensely when it comes to one thing: School Pride! When you hear "We Are," you already know what's coming next, especially if you're from the East Coast. Nationally and globally recognized, the Penn State student body is a family rather than a combination of students. Nittany Lions are extremely prideful of both current students and graduates, and graduating students can find unique opportunities when met with employers who are Alumni!
4. Auburn University
If you're looking for a huge school with Division 1 Athletics and a more lenient acceptance rate, Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama has a beautiful campus and dozens of majors to choose from. For the student that has an SAT score falling below the 1300s, Auburn is an amazing college that could be great option. With an approximately 81% acceptance rate, Auburn is a possibility for all. Beaming the colors orange and navy blue, Auburn has a lot to offer, and the opportunity to become a Tiger is exciting, with potential for students even if they aren't number one in the class, and still desire that perfect college experience!
5. University of Georgia
With a Division 1 Athletic Program and an iconic mascot, the Georgia Bulldogs are not only athletically inclined, but academically, too! With a 53% acceptance rate and a book of majors to choose from, UGA has got potential for students of all interests, diversities, and backgrounds. I discovered UGA through watching a Youtuber on their track team, but I discovered a lot more about the Bulldogs when I researched their Academics. For potential Journalism Majors like myself, UGA is one of a select few to have an entire college dedicated to the study of Communications and Journalism! Hopeful and nervous, I look forward to applying to join the pack of Dawgs in Athens, Georgia.
6. University At Buffalo
Don't let the cold weather scare you- there are tunnels between buildings! UB was blue, bright, and full of happy, prideful students adorning sapphire colored sweatshirts. Despite the chilly winds of the unexpected blizzards in October, I was pleasantly surprised to be encountered with groups of bright and blue-prided students who exclaimed phrases like "Choose UB" and happily toured me around snowy buildings in below freezing conditions. Although the snow was a bit too much for me, with a bundle of sweatshirts and some warm mittens, I think a student could be exceptionally happy at the University at Buffalo!
7. Temple University
Temple University is a large city-school located directly within Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, home of the world's best cheese steaks, best concerts, and the most prideful, passionate football fans. Becoming a Temple Owl means becoming a Philadelphian, which is one of the greatest things to be. There is never a boring moment in Philadelphia, and the school itself is wonderful, with a vast network and a growing community of ambitious, opportunistic students. The only flaw with Temple that you probably have heard by word-of-mouth is the neighborhood it's in, but that's an avoidable conflict and non-problematic for the most part. Because of the incredible alumni network, exciting campus and athletics, united student body, and wonderful Academics, I urge students to apply to Temple, despite the conflict of location.
8. Virginia Commonwealth University
Located in Richmond, Virginia, VCU is located in a beautiful, exciting, up-and-coming modern campus. On top of great academics and a flourishing sports department, the VCU dining hall is always busy, crowded, delicious, and fun. VCU is often swept under the rug, and not the most popular University, but is a wonderful institution in a very pretty campus. The location isn't the safest, but VCU has one of the largest police forces in all of Universities. A Top 100 Research University, this urban university is diverse, colorful, and modern. With a 79% acceptance rate, ambitious students have a good chance of getting into VCU, but will need to work hard for it.
9. Villanova University
Founded on a religious foundation, Villanova University is on a beautiful campus within a safe, stunning area. With incredible Athletics, you've probably heard of the Division 1, nationally recognized basketball team. Nova is comprised of passionate, dedicated, and studious students, sometimes religiously inclined as well, since the campus offers churches, parishes, and fields of study for especially religious students. Despite the Catholic foundations, however, students of all backgrounds and religions are welcome to Nova! You do have to be studious and dedicated, however, with a 36% acceptance rate.
10. University of Chicago
First things first- U Chicago has NO application fee for students applying for aid. Most students! Application fees are a serious thing to consider when applying to multiple colleges and universities! Despite this excellent factor, UChicago isn't only a serious opportunity because of it's lack of a fee. U Chicago is intensely difficult to get in to, with an 8% acceptance rate, displaying it's excellent academics and research opportunities. This University is elite and full of the most promising students. It was actually founded in the Industrial Era by John D. Rockefeller, one of the country's most important figures in the historical Labor Movement! Located in a huge city, UChicago is a groundbreaking University- students and faculty are responsible for discovering the linked connection between genetics and cancer research!
At the end of the day, I would be blessed and lucky to get in to any of these incredible Universities. I would love the opportunity to attend any of these ten beloved schools, and am extremely excited for the opportunity to apply to them! Although I'm only a junior, college is a dream of mine and I absolutely cannot wait for the admissions process to begin. I'm looking forward to starting my career, especially because I love my pathway of Journalism so much. I hope that you are as excited as I am to begin this exciting journey!
