Harry

From a young age, Harry was fascinated by model trains and increasingly captivated by the buildings, landscapes, and communities surrounding them.

Recognizing his growing interest in architecture, we helped Harry explore ways to pursue it more seriously. When it became clear his local school offered few opportunities in architecture and design, we worked with Harry and his family on transferring to a boarding school better suited to his interests. The decision proved transformative. Harry flourished academically and personally, eventually serving as Dorm Prefect and Asian Affinity Leader.

As the college process began, we helped Harry explore universities offering different approaches to architecture and encouraged internships that allowed him to experience the profession firsthand. Initially, he applied early to a highly selective university with a structured architecture curriculum. But after being deferred, he began questioning whether the narrowly focused path truly matched his interdisciplinary interests.

Harry kept returning to a visit at Swarthmore College, where he immediately felt at home. Together, we developed essays, resumes, portfolios, and interviews highlighting connections between architecture, literature, environmental studies, art, and community.

Confident in his direction, Harry applied through Early Decision II, a January binding option that gives students additional time to refine their plans.
Six weeks later, Swarthmore notified him of his acceptance.

In an interesting twist, the university that initially deferred Harry is part of a consortium with Swarthmore, allowing students to take classes across campuses and even pursue a joint degree. Harry discovered he did not have to choose between architecture and intellectual exploration. Sometimes the perfect fit can offer both.