Describe your college search.
I went to a competitive high school and made a decision not to get involved when that competition carried over into the college search process. In the end, my college search was short and sweet. After hearing great things about Grinnell, I visited early in the process and decided to apply early decision on the flight home. When I visited classes and spoke with students, the challenging and supportive academic environment really impressed me.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
For me, the visit was the most important part of learning about a school. Try not to get caught up in the numbers and minute comparisons; ultimately, it boils down to the feeling you get when you're on a campus, and whether or not you can see yourself there.
Have you completed an internship, MAP, or study abroad?
I am in the process of completing my first internship, and am working at a literary agency in New York City. It has been an amazing opportunity to learn about the publishing process. I read manuscripts of all genres and write reports summarizing and critiquing them.
I will be completing an English MAP this fall. Through work with a professor and two students, I will study the craft of the novella and write my own novella over the course of the semester.
What has been your favorite class?
African American Literature was one of my favorites. I left each class feeling renewed excitement about the material. Fiction Writing Seminar was another one of my favorites. Writing creatively was a refreshing challenge and I enjoyed the reading material and small class environment.
What is your favorite aspect of Grinnell?
There are so many parts of Grinnell that I love, but I have to say my favorite aspect is the community that comprises it. It is a very supportive environment with many accessible opportunities available to students.
Did you have any reservations about going to college in Iowa?
Having grown up in New York City, I was eager to live in a different setting. On campus, there is always so much going on that I sometimes forget I am in Iowa, but when I do leave campus, I enjoy the small town charm and peaceful landscape.
