Q: “What would you tell freshmen?”

“Have fun freshman year! Go to that club you were thinking about in the back of your mind. Go talk to the person sitting all alone in the lunchroom – who knows, they might become your best friend. Even though you are entering a stressful chapter of your life, make sure to explore and take time for yourself; remember that everyone paces differently and are on different journeys.”

Follow up Q: “Any final words?”

“College is not the end of the world; I had a not-so-successful college admission journey, but I’m still grateful for all of the opportunities Syosset gave me!”