“We don’t want you to stand out. You’re not supposed to be different; you need to be uniform and just like everyone else.” My middle school principal concluded our first assembly with this message directed at a sea of 13-year-old girls, just entering the transition from childhood to adulthood. And the very adults they looked toward to gain insight and wisdom told them not to stand out, not to be unique, not to express themselves. The adults thought...

Northwestern has impeccably high standards, and its colleges are no exception to this rule. The Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences will prepare me for my future in biological science, because it will permit me to investigate innumerable topics, across both concentrations and schools, while dedicating myself to a pre-medical program. The speed of the quarter system creates space for me to concentrate on science, while also exploring other interests. Additionally, knowing that the university possesses $3 million specifically for undergraduate...

Last year I met a mentor who introduced me to my newest passion. Mr. Baltz started the first high school STEM program in this country, and over the course of the year I worked closely with him to run its youth division. I realized I loved helping children explore just how interesting and exciting science and mathematics can be. Watching their eyes light up after completing an experiment or building a project inspired me, and this program gave me the...

One year ago my mother decided to go back to school to get her master’s degree. She chose the University of Michigan to help her accomplish this goal, and through her journey I was able to witness firsthand all the amazing opportunities and programs that Michigan has to offer. From academic variety and rigor to one-of-a-kind networking opportunities, Michigan provides its students with everything they need to succeed. I want to be an obstetrician when I grow up, but...

In July before my freshman year, my mom encouraged me to try out for the dance team. What I didn’t know then is that this group of girls would not only become my best friends, but my family. We have grown up together, laughed together, and cried together. We have fought with each other as sisters do, but in the end we always come back to each other. I am the “mom” in our family: I offer advice, take...