Author – Aanya Janan

Ah, the Ivy League! Hearing the term might instantly conjure images of gothic libraries, academic elites, and future world leaders deeply engrossed in intellectual debates. But there’s so much more to this venerable group of institutions than just academic prowess. Allow me to pull back the curtain and guide you through the lesser-known tales and charming quirks of these prestigious schools.

A Brief on the Basics

Before we embark on this journey, let’s clear up what the Ivy League really is. Comprising eight private schools nestled in the Northeastern U.S., the Ivy League began as an athletic conference. Yes, sports! But over time, the term has come to signify academic brilliance, societal influence, and a dash of old-world charm. The magnificent eight include Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Penn, Princeton, and Yale.

A Stroll Down Memory Lane

Each Ivy has a history rich and unique, akin to eight siblings with their own tales to tell.

• Harvard, the eldest, founded in 1636, has John Harvard to thank for its name, and, fun fact, for its library too!
• Yale, originating in 1701, was formerly the less catchy “Collegiate School” until Elihu Yale’s generous gift in 1718.
• Princeton, initially the College of New Jersey, was founded in 1746 and, boasting one of the world’s most massive endowments, rebranded in 1896.
• Columbia was established in 1754 as King’s College and holds the honor of being New York’s academic old-timer.
• Brown, started in 1764, made history by being the first U.S. college to throw open its doors to students of all religions.
• Dartmouth, from 1769, was christened in honor of the 2nd Earl of Dartmouth, William Legge, a champion of education.
• Penn was Benjamin Franklin’s brainchild in 1740 and was ahead of its time, offering both undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Cornell, the youngest at 1865, embodies the spirit of universal knowledge, intending to teach and make significant strides in every possible field.

A Dive into the Delightfully Quirky

You’ve probably heard a lot about the Ivies’ brilliance, but have you heard about…

• Dartmouth’s Party Mascot? While tigers and lions are standard mascot fare, Dartmouth went for “Keggy the Keg,” an unofficial mascot that’s a beer keg! Talk about a party school vibe.
• Harvard’s Mysterious Passageways? Rumors have it that secret tunnels snake underneath the historic campus. Were they used during Prohibition, or perhaps for more academic sneaking around?

• Yale’s Secret Society Shenanigans? Skull and Bones isn’t just a dramatic name; it’s a society that boasts members from U.S. Presidents to influential magnates. Its cloak-and-dagger aura has fueled countless conspiracy theories.
• Cornell’s Bear-y Unique Cheerleader? Old tales whisper that in the early 1900s, a live bear would occasionally grace Cornell’s football games. What a sight that must have been!

So, the next time you think of the Ivy League, think not just of its academic laurels, but also of the beer kegs, secret tunnels, and perhaps a bear cheering on a football team. The Ivy League is indeed a blend of the majestic, the historic, and the delightfully offbeat.

Until next time

Aanya

Discover the secrets to creating an impactful “hook” for your college application. Follow this step-by-step guide that merges personal authenticity with practical strategy.

Author – Jonada Cyrus

Art of crafting the perfect hook!

Embarking on the journey of applying to college often involves writing a personal statement or application essay that not only stands out but also resonates deeply with admission officers. But how do you cultivate such an unforgettable narrative? We’ll be exploring the art of crafting the perfect “hook” for your college application, one that harmoniously weaves your personal trials, unique qualities, and future aspirations into a compelling narrative tapestry.

Step 1: Brainstorm

Start by creating a list of ten unique aspects about you that you want to be highlighted in your application materials. This could involve your interests, accomplishments, or defining characteristics. Also, consider 3-4 pivotal moments in your life that have shaped you. Lastly, jot down 1-2 long-term goals that reflect your career or life ambitions. Ensure your ideas are exhaustive, honest, and authentic.

Step 2: Connect the Dots

Now, it’s time to find the common threads between your unique traits, life experiences, and career aspirations. For example, if you’re a state champion swimmer passionate about nature and aspiring to environmental preservation, your hook could revolve around how your competitive spirit is gearing you to fight for the planet through environmental advocacy.

Step 3: Outline

With the connection established, start outlining your narrative’s flow. This involves structuring your story from the introductory event through to the conclusion, outlining what each paragraph should discuss.

Step 4: Flesh it Out

Once your outline is in place, start drafting and adding details to each paragraph. The goal here is to ensure your prose transitions smoothly from one point to the next.

Step 5: Revise

Revision is the key to polishing your draft. This stage involves cutting, revising, re-writing, and editing. Remember, having a strong hook and outline is essential to decide what to keep and what to discard.

Step 6: Perfect

Now that your statement is revised, look at it critically. Does your hook stand out? Is it unique to you? Does your statement logically flow? If the answer is yes, then congratulations, you’ve crafted a compelling hook!

Remember, your “hook” should not only resonate with the admission officers but also stay relevant to your path long after the college application process.

The magic of a well-crafted “hook” lies in its longevity. A true hook speaks volumes about your past, present, and future. It encapsulates your identity, ambitions, and resilience, making your college application truly memorable.

Remember, the college application process is not just about securing a seat in your dream college. It’s also a journey of self-discovery and self-expression. So let your “hook” be the anchor that holds your unique story together. Happy writing!