Honestly, I was never quite keen on going to my state university.

For me, it was my last resort. I desired to go to Stanford or at least an IVY league. I spent most of my energy of my middle school and high school desperately trying to secure perfect grades and have internships so that I could finally redeem myself.

As sibling rivalry goes, I always dreamt of one-upping my brother, seeking my own validation.In elementary school, I was by no means astute. Quite often, I would end up being the child that required "more assistance". After my first quarter in middle school, I made a minor however quite pivotal vow to myself. Excited to conquer the next chapter in my life, I promised myself I would graduate middle school and high school having never earned a single B as my final grade. Essentially, I desired to be a straight A student.

I've never toiled as incessantly as I did in high school and middle school. I almost always pulled all-nighters during the weekdays doing homework, attempting to comprehend the information that I learned in school that day, and studying for exams.

I was apprehensive at the idea of feeling enfeebled.

Instead of spending my summer laying at the beach soaking up the sun, I sat at home with a book of thousands of words.

On paper, I felt impeccable. I had an almost perfect ACT score, a report card that showed nothing but A's , had internships at the National Institute of Science and Technology and I took almost all AP classes senior year and junior year. However, I'd given up so much of my early years to diligence and building a great work ethic.

So, when it came to applying to college, I was so tense. I had 7 years of hard work put on the line. This was this probably the most nerve-racking time, and I spent hours a day on college confidential threads anticipating the arrival of college decisions.

Finally, some of my dream schools had accepted, some being Ivy league schools and others being top computer science schools. Ecstatic, I was waiting for scholarship decisions to come out so I could finally taste victory. I was euphoric being accepted into all these prestigious schools, so sure I was going to end up at one. Soon, I found out that Ivy Leagues only gave need-based scholarships and I was ineligible. Still optimistic, until the day came, where I got a big envelope from the University of Maryland. I opened it, hoping they would have given me next to nothing so I didn't have to go to the school my brother went to. It ended up being a full ride scholarship.

Most people would rejoice at this news. Having their dining, living, tuition, books covered by the school. However, I felt broken. Was all the hard work I put in, going to come to this?

Going to my brother's school

Being so close to home.

My parents were elated. They were filled with pride at this accomplishment of mine. I, on the other hand saw it as my own calamity. How would I ever justify 270,000 dollars when I had a full ride to a top 15 Computer Science School ? Notably, my parents never compelled me.

However, I couldn't justify to myself spending hundreds of grands to get an education that I could get at an almost as great school.

Decision day came, I flipped a coin.

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND IT WAS.

I was bitter but also excited to finally go on to college and have this freedom that I craved. I couldn't be more pleased with the decision I made. Yes, it's been one hell of a ride. I've learned so much.

It's been 3 years at UMD. I can say with confidence, I have met the most inspiring people. People with like-minded drive and unfathomable intellect. I've never been surrounded with such an eclectic group of people. I was amazed at the people who inspired me with their wit and yearning to conquer their dreams.

I soon learned a school in itself is merely anything but an institution with people there to share their insight and wisdom. It really comes down to the type of people you surround yourself with and the opportunities you grasp: people who uplift you and serve as role models for yourself. I've learned that despite what school you go to, you have the power vested in you to choose your surroundings. For me, this was a tumultuous however fruitful experience. By no means have all my friendships turned out to be perpetual. However, every relationship has molded me into the person I am today. One that is, more than content at her decision with the college she chose.

At UMD, I've met the brightest and most ingenious. People who don't take no for an answer. I aspire to be like them. Every day, I've been mentally challenged with coursework. No class has ever been a piece of cake. Every person has challenged me in some way whether it be course related or philosophically speaking. I've gained such a diverse perspective, interacting with people from all different walks of life.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Thank you UMD for giving me the chance to meet such inspiring people. I can't wait for the next exciting year and my time to say my bitter-sweet goodbyes.

To any person out there who's perplexed about college decisions. College is just College. You have the ability of what you want to make out of this revolutionary time in your life and the school you go to. Grasp every opportunity to thrive, and surround yourself with people that motivate you to be the best version of yourself. <3