Recent Grad Paths: Lena '22

What is one way that Burke prepared you, academically or personally, for college?

I appreciated the opportunities for class discussion at Burke, and the small-class environment. Getting to know my teachers well and feeling comfortable enough to answer questions in class at Burke was formative for me. [I could then] translate that skill to college, where I felt confident enough to approach the professor to ask a question or start a conversation.

How have you moved forward in your educational journey in college?

Choosing to spend my first two years of college abroad has truly changed my life. I am so grateful that Trinity has not only enriched me intellectually, but also awarded me an invaluable life education. My experience in the Dual BA allowed me to really grow as a person, and gave me a practical education in the "adulting” skills often pushed aside in college. As a result, I feel much more prepared to go out into the world and live as a competent adult post-college, secure in my ability to thrive doing so. At Columbia so far, I have been able to explore different avenues of study that are allowing me to find new niches in the world. Overall, I feel much more comfortable as a person, and confident that the career path I am pursuing is reflective of what I feel most fulfilled doing.

What should Burke juniors and seniors keep in mind during the process?
It’s a big deal to complete all of your applications, regardless of where you get in, so I hope you can give yourself some grace and celebrate your hard work. You may be surprised – the right school for you may come from an unexpected place. College is such an exciting adventure; good things are on the horizon!