For Northwestern:

There are a lot of similarities among great universities, such as having great facilities, renowned professors, and a diverse student body. However, for me, the defining difference is how much professors care for the students – a quality that Northwestern embodies.

While lectures are informative, private discourses with the professors can be even more inspiring. Probing and impromptu questions always throw more light on the original thought process and creative thinking behind the facts. Shorter idea proposition-correction cycles would also enliven the creative process that would beget still better ideas. Knowledge is critical but it’s no substitute for creative thinking. This is the reason I value accessibility to professors in Northwestern so highly.

I had the good fortune to come across teachers that truly cared for the well being of their students in and out of school. Their mentoring imparts in me not just knowledge but also methods, changes not only my analytics but also my vista. When I heard that how many of Northwestern professors really care for the students, I know I have found the right school for myself. Without genuine trust and solid bond between teachers and students, there can be no candid critique and constructive criticism to prepare us for the harsh reality of the outside world. I believe that the inspiring pedagogy of Northwestern’s professors and the unique way Northwestern chooses its students would create such a closely-knit community that will go a long way towards polishing my intellect and realizing my potential.

Northwestern proximity to myriad of museums and libraries also provides solid ground for doing research and makes fertile soil for finding inspirations. Abundance of cultural attractions in the city offers student a good complements to the rigor of academic life. As an art enthusiast who loves textiles, sculptures, and paintings, Art Institute of Chicago, with its world class collections, will be a godsend.

Northwestern’s Quarter System can be tough on the mind and the body. However, it is exactly that that allows students time to explore various courses, and yet still participate in internships and student groups the university has to offer. SEED is one that I am excited about as I was the Co-Chairman of the only active Green Group in my current high school that held events that were similar to those of SEED. Skepticism about the effectiveness of our efforts diminished neither my enthusiasm, nor my beliefs in our mission, as I now want to be part of a unique group like SEED.

Whether it is the curriculum and the student groups, or the location and the community, Northwestern is the school for me.