May 30, 2017
As the 2016–17 school year comes to an end, we’re sharing the college choice stories of several members of the Class of 2017.
In what grade did you come to MPA? Kindergarten
How did you come to choose the college that you did?
Ms. Pederson kindly pulled me out of physics class to talk to one of Marist’s reps that came to visit MPA. While talking to him, I got the impression that Marist is a great college to go to for computer science and getting hands on experience in your field of study. After visiting Marist and talking to professors, I now know that is true.
What are you most excited about as you embark on your college experience?
I’m really excited to get experience in areas of computer science that I haven’t been able to study.
What did you appreciate most about the college counseling process at MPA?
I appreciate how available not just Ms. Pederson is, but all teachers at MPA are to talk about college choices and give advice.
What about your MPA experience has best prepared you for college?
MPA has taught me how to critically think and analyze situations.
What is your advice for the Class of 2029 (kindergartners)?
Always be yourself and follow your passions. If you can find a career in a hobby you love, than that’s the career that you should chase.
Insights from Ms. Pederson, Director of College Counseling:
Working with William presented a unique situation, as he was searching for a university-level computer science program while already holding his dream job as a major equity holder with local cybersecurity company Secured2. His most recent endeavor is a security and compression solution that stores data multi-dimensionally using unique 3D shapes—the patent for that product has been fully granted and has William’s name on it. So, when I met with the Marist representative visiting MPA and heard about their new cybersecurity major and impressive facilities, I thought of William right away. Flash forward a few months, and William was not only was offered admission, but also was flown out to New York to interview for a full scholarship. Before he left, we met to discuss what he might expect of their process, and we arranged for him to do a practice interview with Upper School Director Mark Segal. We are delighted that he won the scholarship, and look forward to seeing what new ground he’ll break at Marist.
The 54 members of the Class of 2017 were offered admission to 113 different colleges/universities in 31 states, Washington D.C., and Canada. They will attend 33 different colleges/universities in 14 states. Learn more about MPA’s College Counseling program here! >
