The Power of Dreaming Big: Why I Applied to Princeton

My journey to Princeton University began in the most unexpected way. As a graduate student pursuing an MA and Ph.D. in Spanish Language and Literature, I found myself in a small library on the campus of my undergraduate institution, seeking information about Princeton's Graduate School. Much to my amazement, the librarian, in a sweet but disheartening tone, discouraged me from even contemplating such a prestigious institution, recommending instead a different path deemed more 'fitting'. This initial setback only fueled my determination to apply to Princeton, teaching me to fight for my dreams where others may have deemed them impossible.

Overcoming Initial Prejudices

When I first heard about Princeton, it was often mentioned in the context of its safe and comfortable town, not the rigorous and demanding graduate program. My guidance counselor, who had recommended that I apply to Princeton, did not bother to mention the stringent admission criteria. His recommendation was based on the idea that the town was child-friendly, which, at the time, I only half-understood as a positive attribute.

Back then, with a certain level of naivety and an unwavering dream, I applied. The librarian's words, meant to discourage me, only intensified my resolve. In retrospect, I am grateful for that naivety. It allowed me to fully embrace my dream and work tirelessly to earn a place in one of the world's most prestigious institutions.

Professor's Recommendation: A Chance at Harvard

My journey to Princeton was also influenced by my high school guidance counselor. At the time, I was a high school student in Southern California, and my counselor believed that I needed an extensive move away from home. He recommended applying to at least one school on the east coast, mentioning Princeton. While I had dreams of attending Harvard and other Ivy League institutions, the counselor's suggestion to apply to Princeton was based on the perceived prestige of the school. Once accepted and visiting the school, I discovered a number of benefits that I had not anticipated:

A low student to faculty ratio, fostering a more personalized educational experience. A smaller student body of around 4000 students, providing a close-knit community. A strong emphasis on undergraduate education, ensuring a robust and comprehensive learning environment. A charming and beautiful campus, enhancing the overall student experience.

Each of these factors played a crucial role in my decision to pursue my graduate studies at Princeton.

Lessons Learned: The Importance of Dreams and Challenges

My experience at Princeton, fueled by an unwavering dream and the challenge presented by the librarian's discouragement, taught me valuable lessons. Firstly, it highlighted the importance of leaving a student's dreams alone, even if one feels they are "impossible." Secondly, it reminded me that every person's dreams and potential are unique and cannot be easily dismissed, as my grandmother used to say, "each head is an universe."

By pursuing my dreams and facing the challenges head-on, I not only achieved success but also gained a deeper understanding of the importance of perseverance and the power of belief in oneself. This journey to Princeton was a testament to the power of dreaming big and never giving up on one's aspirations.

So, whether your dream is to study at Princeton or any other institution, always remember: the belief in your dreams can lead you to unexpected places and successes.