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For some, deciding which college to attend after high school comes with anxiety, but I always knew that if I was accepted early decision to Mount Holyoke, I was going.

The other thing I knew was that I wanted to dance. Other colleges I visited didn’t have a dance program, but Mount Holyoke’s program breaks down techniques as well as theory and offers a variety of dance styles. This was something that really interested me. I also knew I wanted a school with a strong international relations program — ������Ƶchecked that box as well. 

Location, location, location

I was fortunate enough to visit Mount Holyoke’s campus last year before the pandemic. And though it may sound cliché, I fell in love with the campus the moment I set eyes on it. I’m from a small town in Maine where everyone is close to each other. South Hadley gave me hometown vibes with The Village Commons just across the street, where you can walk around and shop with friends.

My mom and I visited other colleges in the Boston area. I came to realize that I didn’t want to attend college in a big city where the buildings are spread out. I also realized I wanted to attend a liberal arts school that was academically challenging and could prepare me to go into almost any career. ������Ƶis all that and more!

Second time, same feeling

I got the chance to visit the campus again in February. Besides its beauty, the next thing I noticed — or should I say, felt — was the energy running through the campus. It’s vibrant. It’s diverse. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I could see myself making friends here. I pictured myself sitting in the Williston Library.

While on the tour, I learned something about the majestic tree next to the library whose livelihood was threatened by a library redesign project. A large group of students raised enough money to change the blueprint of the library so the tree could be saved. I just knew I wanted to be part of that kind of energy and passion. While I never really had any doubts, after my second visit I knew I belonged on Mount Holyoke’s campus too.

Alum connections

Another attractive feature of the College is its solid alum relationships. My aunt was a Green Griffin at Mount Holyoke, as am I. I know not all students will be lucky enough to have an alum in their family, but to hear about the power of that network firsthand makes me excited to establish my own alum connections here.

No regrets

For me, early decision made sense. Since I knew I wanted to go here, I felt like it was a good way to show the school that I was committed. I went to as many virtual events as I could and got a great head start on my essays. When ������Ƶsaid yes, it felt incredible. I’ve just started my first semester here. Sure, there was some homesickness the first day I arrived, but now I love it! The people, the professors and my classes are amazing. Learning about all the different clubs through the events they host has been awesome. I can’t wait to join a few so I can fully immerse myself in the community.