Journey to the Ivy Leagues: What’s so good about Ivy Leagues anyway?

        

            I’ve always chased big dreams, ever since I was a little girl. Of course, back then I wanted to be bigger than Britney and Christina and I wanted money, fame and all that came with it. After experiencing a little bit more of life and learning that those things really don’t hold any purpose for me, I let go of my childhood dreams of being a superstar, to taking on academia. I’ve always known that college was the only option after high school, and by the time my first semester at Lincoln was over, I knew I would be a fool not to pursue another degree. And so here I am, sharing my journey toward becoming a graduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League university.

Why Ivy League?

I wanted to attend an Ivy League university because I know that I am intelligent, ambitious and that I can be in a room full of the very best and still be one of the best. Ivy League institutions are incredibly competitive and they carry a sense of prestige that, in combination with my degree from an illustrious HBCU, my personal credentials and my unique personality, will only make my brand more marketable. I will have two collegiate experiences that will undeniable make me a force to be reckoned with.

Why the University of Pennsylvania?

When choosing which of the Ivies would best suite me, I looked at PROGRAM, LOCATION and FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITY. Ivy League institutions are scattered around the country, mostly on the east coast and they do not offer merit based scholarships. However, many programs offer fellowships, teaching assistantships and other opportunities to help pay for tuition and fees. UPenn is not only situated in the heart of Philadelphia, but they offer the perfect program and opportunities that are tangible for me.

Why not other universities?

I am absolutely applying to other universities! My purpose of documenting this specific journey is to really help others on their grad school journeys in general! I will be making reference to other schools and my progress with grad school in general. The title and the focus is only because UPenn is my first choice university and I am working with every intention of getting in. Whatever tips I may give, apply them to whatever institution you are applying for, Ivy League or not!

Where do I start?

I will be posting about the application progress and new steps I’ve taken every few weeks. From the application process to the acceptance letter, to making the big move, I will keep you all posted. Tune in next time for my blog about the application process!

So whats so good about Ivy Leagues anyway?

At the end of the day, I work to be the best that I can absolutely be, by competing with and learning with the "best", I can show myself what I am really made of. I am looking for an even tougher challenge.