Sawyer

University of Notre Dame, Psychology & Pre-Med

Class of 2028

WHAT WERE YOUR GOALS FOR COLLEGE ADMISSION? DID YOU ACCOMPLISH THEM?

My goal was to refine my college search and gain admission to a university that offered outstanding academics, a strong community, and the opportunity to continue to do what I love: dance! I accomplished this by finding a school that met all of my priorities and where I felt at home.

WHAT WAS MOST HELPFUL ABOUT WORKING WITH HUGHES COLLEGE PREP?

Hughes College Prep was extraordinarily helpful in keeping me on track with my personal goals. Our weekly meetings were always productive and informative, and I never felt behind or confused about what I should be working on.

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST SURPRISE, GOOD OR BAD, ABOUT THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS IN GENERAL?

My biggest surprise was how the stress of the admissions process truly was eased so much once I felt more organized. Knowing exactly what needed to be done helped me so much, as well as learning to make the distinction of what I could and could not control.

WERE YOU ACCEPTED TO ONE OF YOUR TOP THREE SCHOOL CHOICES?

Yes, I was accepted to one of my top choices and I couldn’t be happier at Notre Dame now!

DID YOU FEEL SUPPORTED BY HUGHES COLLEGE PREP DURING THE ADMISSION PROCESS? IF SO, HOW?

Yes, Hughes was extremely supportive throughout the process! Even as my goals evolved and changed, Hughes consistently supported me in aiming high.

WHAT SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT WORKING WITH HUGHES COLLEGE PREP?

I was surprised how extensive the college application process can be, and I am so grateful that Hughes was there to help me navigate the experience! It can be a lot of “to-do”s to check off in a short amount of time, and Hughes ensured that it was the smoothest ride possible.

ARE THERE ANY ASPECTS OF YOUR TIME WITH HUGHES THAT STICK OUT AS HAVING CARRIED THROUGH TO OTHER ELEMENTS OF YOUR LIFE, BEYOND COLLEGE ADMISSIONS, SUCH AS COLLEGE, JOBS, ETC.? 

My experience with Hughes enabled me to become a more focused and organized version of myself. Additionally, writing my college essays allowed me to understand better who I am as a person and helped me clarify my values and what truly matters to me in life!

WHAT IS ONE BIT OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO PARENTS OF COLLEGE-BOUND STUDENTS? 

I would advise parents to be patient with your kids. There’s a lot going on senior year, and it is so helpful to have your family to rely on. I was grateful to have wonderful parents who wholeheartedly supported me to reach my academic goals and also were there for emotional support!

WHAT IS ONE BIT OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO THE STUDENTS THEMSELVES?

Don’t compare yourself to others, because everyone is on their own path. I would advise to just try and focus on what is important to YOU. Take time to celebrate the little things, and embrace your own journey.