May 29, 2020
As the 2019–20 school year comes to an end, we’re sharing the college choice stories of the Class of 2020!
In what grade did you come to MPA?
I came to MPA in Kindergarden. I loved the community Mounds Park Academy has. I especially like the great education I have gotten along with my classmates.
How did you come to choose the college that you did?
I have wanted to go to a smaller school since I could remember. I only looked at smaller liberal art colleges because I knew what kind of school I wanted to continue my education at. I knew that coming from the smaller class sizes and small community at Mounds Park Academy I would want a smaller college. St. Olaf emphasized the small class sizes, along with a similar teacher student relationship that I got at Mounds Park Academy. I also wanted to make academics a priority along with being able to play sports. St. Olaf gives me the chance to thrive academically while playing volleyball.
What are you most excited about as you embark on your college experience?
I am excited to meet new people and to experience new personalities.The class of 2020 has become my family over that last 13 years, but I am excited to meet some new people. I want to push myself out of my comfort zone and into trying new things.
What did you appreciate most about the college counseling process at MPA?
Ms. Pederson has done a wonderful job helping each student find their own path. It is amazing how much she cares for each individual person. She always supported me through everything and had the best reaction to good news about colleges.
What about your MPA experience has best prepared you for college?
MPA has taught me many things throughout the years. It has not only prepared me for college but also made me a better person. I can’t imagine the person I would be without my experience with the amazing people at MPA. Each class I took not only educated me about academics, but also how to be the best person I can possibly be. Every teacher has dedicated themselves to not only teach the lesson, but to get to know each student. I know that from what I have learned from MPA, I am ready for college.
What is your advice for MPA’s Class of 2032 (kindergartners)?
I encourage you to pursue everything that you love. Try new things because the people at MPA will support you. Try things out of your comfort zone because that only makes you better. Don’t be afraid to fail because MPA’s community will be there to pick you up. Have fun at MPA because it does go really fast. I know from experience that lower school, middle school, and high school fly by. There is nothing like MPA and the experiences and memories you will get. The teachers, friends, and memories you will encounter are one in a million.
The 53 members of the Class of 2020 plan to attend 41 different colleges and universities in 18 states, Washington D.C., Canada, and Australia. See their destinations here. Learn more about MPA’s College Counseling Program here!
