Road to College: Driven by Passion(s)

One aspect of choosing a best-fit college is to find a school that lets students merge their educational goals with their passions. But what does this look like for a student with a diverse list of passions and interests?

Well, this week we hear from one Class of ’21 senior who seems to have that figured out. 

Meet:

Jerry Lu, Concordia student since 2010 

Accepted to: 

Brown University

Intended field of study: 

T-B-D! 

How did you feel when you got the news of your acceptance?    

It was crazy. I think my mom and I jumped up and down for a solid 50 seconds after I received the decision. She was crying, I was screaming…it was a morning full of emotions.   

Do you know already which school you will attend, and can you tell us what makes it a good fit for you?  

I applied early decision to Brown University. As someone who’s all over the place in terms of passions, I appreciate how Brown’s Open Curriculum allows me to explore anything I want without concerns for distribution requirements. It’s flexible, it’s passion-driven, and it’s exactly what I’m looking for. 

In your opinion, what made your college application stand out?   

I subsist on ugly outfits, eccentric dance moves, and corny jokes. Most people who know me will say that I’m weird–and that’s so true. I have a quirky personality…and I’m not afraid to show it. If I were to guess, that’s probably what gave my application an extra flare.   

Is there a particular program or field of study you want to pursue at the school(s)?      

I honestly have no clue!  

Which classes, programs, and/or faculty at Concordia helped support your interest in your planned field of study?    

Freshman Humanities uncovered my passion for writing and social science. Honors Precalculus strengthened my tolerance for hardship. AL Social Entrepreneurship fostered my interests for business and social impact.   

The range of experiences that Concordia offers through its curriculum has allowed me to explore so many different things, academically and personally. Perhaps that’s the reason why I’m so fond of an interdisciplinary college education.  

Are there any other activities (clubs, teams, projects) that stand out as having a significant impact on you during your time at Concordia? 

I’ll use this as an opportunity to plug my favorite activity at Concordia, Student Council. Honestly, I don’t know where I would be without it. Being on the front line of scrutiny, I am constantly challenged to think critically and confidently. My work exposes me to a breadth of experiences and perspectives, and it allows me to understand people and leadership better. Student Council is a big reason why I am who I am today, and I’m forever grateful for that.