For Brown, I had the opportunity to interview Sophia who had a different story and I found it so awesome because it gives students hope that even if you didn't get into your dream school senior year, you still have hope in the future, don't give up! Thank you Sophia for the great story and tips!
How would you describe the weather at Brown University? Does it frequently snow? What would advise students to bring when coming to Brown?
"It doesn’t snow that much, but it definitely rains a lot. I’d advise students to bring lots of layers, a mini umbrella to keep in their backpack, and a warm rain jacket. In spring, everyone starts dressing super cute, so also pack some floral/summer outfits to wear out on the main green! (There’s no pressure to do this, it’s just something I think I would’ve liked to know)."
How would you describe the workload? Do students study at home during the weekends or go out and relax with their friends?
"The workload really depends on your major / your classes. Some majors have a lot of super intense classes that you have to take in the same semester, while others don’t. Even if your workload isn’t a ton, though, everyone still puts a lot of effort into their studies. There’s definitely a mix of studying and hanging out on the weekends. Friday and Saturday nights you're probably not going to find too many people in the libraries, but you definitely will during the daytime & also on Sunday. Going out is also pretty big on Wednesday’s so it’s nice not to have an early class on Thurs."
What makes Brown so special to you? Was it your first choice and your dream school?
"Brown is special because of the atmosphere it creates and the people it attracts. I’ve never been in a place that has more genuinely nice, interesting, and ambitious people. When you’re at brown, you feel like you can accomplish anything in the world. Brown was my first choice and dream school. I actually didn’t get in when I applied as a senior. However, I applied as a sophomore transfer and got in! So I feel like i really really appreciate everything brown offers. I think brown is the greatest place on earth."
How big are your classes?
"Class size again really depends on your major / your interests. Right now I’m in 3 classes that are around 15 people, and one class that has 450!"
What is one advice you would give to juniors choosing what colleges to apply to? Should they do research on weather, how good the food is, or if the school is prestigious?
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"Hmm, if I was a junior, I’d start by making a list of qualities that you think you really want in a college. So if you want to attend a college that has an intellectually curious campus, or a great program in x, make note of that, and then start researching which college may best fit into that category. I would say there isn’t one specific thing anyone should look into, because choosing the right college is dependent upon individual taste and priorities. "
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"I think the best indicator of whether or not you’d like a college is not only visiting, but talking to / or reaching out to kids on campus. You get a completely different vibe when you take a tour or look at a website versus when you interact with people from that school."
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"Also, being a transfer, I know that it can be really difficult and confusing to know if you picked the right school (my freshman year I definitely did not). The issue at my previous school wasn’t the level of academics (the academics were fantastic)...it was that the culture wasn’t at all what I wanted. So I’d try and figure out what the culture at each school you’re applying to is like....it was that the culture wasn’t at all what I wanted. So I’d try and figure out what the culture at each school you’re applying to is like."