Having already been through the crazy frenzy of essays, supplements and whatnot, I thought I’d give my advice to you stressed high school seniors.
Yes, I know, it’s incredibly stressful. But you can do it! When applying though, I hope you don’t lose sight of things. Remind yourself why you’re applying. What does this school have that makes you want to be a part of it? What makes it different from other schools? Is it the campus, the academics, clubs, organizations, internships, programs, research opportunities? What about the general atmosphere of the school? If you can, try visiting the school. Really. When I visited Rutgers, I was surprised at how amazing the campuses are. Each campus has their own personality, it’s kind of cool.
For those planning to apply early action to Rutgers, remember that the deadline is Nov.1st! But you guys already knew that, right? Trust me, applying early is worth it. I highly recommend early action to those considering applying to Rutgers. Better to get it over now, right? Even if you’re not completely sure about Rutgers, you should still apply. Early action isn’t binding, so no worries!
When surrounded by essay topics, don’t forget to put yourself in your writing. What makes you…you? Your essay can never be too bold. But at the same time, don’t try to overimpress people by emphasizing your accomplishments and activities. Remember, you already did that in the ‘activities’ section of your application. What else you’ve got? Be genuine, and don’t try to come off as someone you’re not. Trust me, the person reading your essay will be more than familiar with BS. Yes, BS. They can smell it.
Oh, just a heads up: there will be a time in your application process where you will be rereading your essays and short answers again and again and again, and freak out over each individual word. Focus on the message that you’re trying to convey. Well of course, I’m not saying that you should totally disregard syntax and word choice…
Another important thing: before you press that submit button, REREAD YOUR APPLICATION. Yes, you’ve probably reread it before. Yes, you’re probably sick and tired of looking at it. But you can only press that button once. Ask a friend or family member to go over it, just in case. Oh, and don’t forget to press that submit button. Pressing it is an experience that I cannot accurately describe…it’s a combination of fear, happiness, anxiety, relief, and ‘OMIGOSH I DID IT YAY’.
I applied to Rutgers because of its pharmacy program. I’ve always heard from others that it was an excellent program, and that the pharmaceutical industry is a major business in New Jersey. I wasn’t too sure about pursuing a pharmacy career though, but I decided to go to Rutgers because the program gives me two years to figure things out. Still trying to figure things out, eheh, but as of now, I think I’m staying in the program. Even if you’re not too certain about pharmacy, if you’re interested in the sciences, go for it! It's nice to have pharmacy as one of your options when you finally make that big decision. The pharmacy program is one of the most selective programs that Rutgers offers, and it’s something to take advantage of. But a fair warning, it’s a lot of work and commitment. But I like it here. The pharmacy community is pretty tight, and I always feel a sense of pride when I tell people I’m in pharmacy. It’s also fun to watch people’s reactions (usually along the lines of, ‘Oh wow…that’s a lot of work…props’) But yeah, please don’t be intimidated by this school’s hugeness. You can most definitely find your own community here, there’s a place for everybody.
I guess overall, yes, applications suck. But I feel like during that period I was forced to think a lot about myself. I’ve answered questions that I had never asked myself before. You really get to learn things. Of course, that doesn’t take away any of the stress, but it’s something to keep in mind. Oh, and if you feel incredibly overwhelmed by the abstract concept of ‘Omigosh, this is it…I’m going to college. My childhood is dying from an incurable epidemic called time’, it’s perfectly normal.
If you have any specific questions about applications, or Rutgers, or pharmacy, or…anything, feel free to ask! Comment below, or email me at cli98@hotmail.com. I’ll be sure to respond as soon as possible. I pinky promise guarantee it. Mind you, I take pinky promises seriously.
Just a side note, it is incredibly weird to be writing this post. HOW IS IT THAT I’M ALREADY IN COLLEGE D: Oh mann…
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