For my first post, I would like to write about why I chose IU. It's that time of the year again, when students are eagerly making their way to Bloomington for orientation, taking photos for their student ID, and registering for all those annoying freshman classes (yes, I'm referring to Finite). It has me feeling nostalgic. For some, choosing a college is an easy decision. They follow in their family's footsteps or have been set on a school for their whole life. For me, it wasn't so easy. Making decisions is EXTREMELY difficult for me. I struggle picking out an ice cream flavor. So, naturally I took my time making a college decision.
I wanted the whole package. I didn't want to settle for a school where there was only one benefit--like my major's program or gorgeous weather. I applied to about ten schools, IU being the first, and didn't decide until April 30th--the commitment deadline. Coming from a competitive high school, it was hard for me wrap my mind around the fact that IU was a backup for many of my fellow peers. Everyone at my high school applied to IU as a "safety" school, just in case they didn't get in to their first or second choice. I myself was torn between IU, Wisconsin and UT Austin. But when it came down to it, IU just felt right.
In the end, you just have to concentrate on yourself and the atmosphere you can see yourself in. I wanted a school with opportunities to volunteer, join clubs, and get all decked out for a football game. A place where I could meet new people with a variety of interests and talents. Although I didn't focus on it as much, I did some research on my major (Journalism) and found out that IU had a great school for it. After attending IU for 2 years, I am convinced that I made the best decision.
IU is the WHOLE package. Beautiful campus, plenty of quality educational programs, Greek life, big sports, school spirit--this list could go on. I took one look at Kirkwood, Sample Gates, and the Arboretum and knew this is where I wanted to be. So to all of you incoming Hoosiers, make the most of orientation and get ready for a crazy adventure!
Here are some posts from some other IU students sharing their thoughts about why they chose IU.