Beyond the Transcript: Natalie Baltimore’s College Admissions Journey
Every person’s college admissions journey is unique.
My experience differed significantly between my undergraduate and graduate applications. The most crucial difference the second time was my understanding of the process. I knew what was expected, what responses were favored, and most importantly, how to pitch myself effectively.
I cherished my time at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). It offered a perfect balance between academic rigor and personal comfort. Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic during my junior and senior years, I wouldn't change my UCLA experience. However, there were many aspects of the application process that I wish I had approached differently. I could have strengthened my application significantly had I known then what I learned while applying for my Master’s at Columbia University.
Here are some of the pitfalls, mistakes, and fears I encountered that could have been avoided.
The college application process felt incredibly daunting and overwhelming starting in ninth grade. Whenever my parents cautiously brought up the topic at family dinners, my 15-year-old self would push the question aside with annoyance. At that point in my life, I dealt with problems either head-on or avoided them entirely. Unfortunately, I chose avoidance in this case. Despite having two older sisters already in university in the United States, a supportive father eager to help, a mother seeking opportunities for me, no financial pressure, and a competent high school counselor, I still felt underprepared, overwhelmed, and unsure about my future after high school.
The core of my fear was not knowing myself.
When asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I would shrug in discomfort. As an adult, I now believe that the more pertinent question is, “Who do you want to be when you grow up?” The answer should reflect the characteristics that define the person one aspires to become. My lack of self-awareness made the college selection process challenging. I didn't know if I wanted to attend a large or small school, a prestigious or research-driven institution, a social or religious school, or even which country to study in. I confidently chose "Undeclared" for my major on every application.
In 10th grade, I took the PSAT without preparation, viewing it as a meaningless test. Unfortunately, I carried this sentiment to the SAT the following year,
and my scores reflected my lack of effort.
Before retaking the SAT, I sought help from a senior tutor and used my sister’s SAT prep book, resulting in better, but still insufficient, scores. I then prepared for the ACT, hoping it would suit me better. Despite rigorous study, my scores were still not great, so I relied on the rest of my application to compensate for my standardized test performance.
My father and I spent a month touring eighteen colleges across the United States. I learned two main lessons from this trip. First, each university offers a unique experience. For example, I knew within minutes of arriving at the University of Pennsylvania that I had no interest in applying there. Second, I realized I was about to leave my family and home, a daunting yet liberating reality for many third-culture students. This realization helped me focus on spending quality time with my family during my senior year.
By senior year, I had a plan.
I knew which 18 schools to apply to, secured my letters of recommendation, and followed a strict schedule for my essays. However, I was unsure which aspects of myself to highlight to admissions officers. Ultimately, I combined my unique background, extracurricular experience, dedication to academics, and plans. Despite being organized, I was unprepared for interviews and struggled to articulate my interests and experiences.
I was accepted to several schools, with the major decision being between UCLA and Georgetown University. After much contemplation, I chose UCLA for its balance of prestige, relaxed yet ambitious atmosphere, location, and excellent food. My final undergraduate application included a high GPA, strong letters of recommendation, a unique common application essay, average standardized test scores, diverse extracurricular activities, and poor interviews. Despite the stress and challenges, I felt supported, proud, and grateful.
My positive journey led me to join Momentum College Prep. I want to share the knowledge I've gained to help students avoid unnecessary mistakes and reach their full potential. Applying to college is an emotional process with life-changing results, and I am excited to support students on their journey.
Interested in the specifics? Want to know my SAT/ACT scores, college essays, and where I applied and got accepted? Book your initial consultation with Momentum College Prep and start your personalized journey today!
