Connecting at Zero Distance: A Recap of the Pioneer Co-Curricular Summit’s College Fair
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The College Fair at the Pioneer Academics 3rd Annual Co-Curricular Summit presented a singular opportunity for high school students to connect with college admission officers from some of the best universities and liberal arts colleges in the United States. Schools like Cornell University; Middlebury College; Barnard College; University of California, Berkeley; Bowdoin Collegel; California Institute of Technology (Caltech); Colorado College; Dickinson College; Hamilton College; Johns Hopkins University; Northwestern University; New York University; Oberlin College; The Ohio State University; Pomona College; Skidmore College; University of Chicago; University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance; University of Pennsylvania; Vanderbilt University; and Wake Forest University were there to offer insider insights into admissions, academic programs, and student life. Our Summit reporter attended the Fair and shared some highlights from the Pioneer Co-Curricular Summit’s College Fair experience.
One of these highly informative sessions, for instance, took place at Cornell University’s virtual booth, where the college admission officer offered practical advice on writing personal essays. They encouraged students to write as if speaking to themselves 10 years into the future, focusing on authenticity and avoiding vague statements. Additionally, Cornell emphasized the importance of engaging with the university’s curriculum and considering the achievements of its celebrated alumni. Flexibility in academic pathways was a key message, and while AP scores are considered, they are not required if unavailable at a student’s high school. Cornell values academic excellence across all settings and encourages students to pursue interdisciplinary education tailored to their interests.
At the University of Pennsylvania booth, students learned about the variety of dual-degree options available, including the differences between coordinated and uncoordinated programs. Representatives clarified that Penn’s admissions process is need-blind for applicants from the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, and need-aware for international students. Penn also dispelled concerns about quotas for specific schools, urging students to concentrate on building strong, individualized applications that highlight their unique strengths and experiences.
Middlebury College also captured students’ attention with a presentation by Kitty Bartlett, who highlighted the college’s dynamic offerings. One standout feature was the Computer Science program, Middlebury’s fastest-growing major, led by a female professor of color. The program promotes active student participation in cutting-edge research, debunking the misconception that liberal arts colleges are less STEM focused. Bartlett emphasized that Middlebury’s curriculum provides students with the same valuable skills found at larger universities, fostering both academic rigor and interdisciplinary exploration.
Another key feature of Middlebury is its immersive language programs, where students practice their chosen language by living in language-specific houses, such as the Chinese or Spanish house, where no English is spoken. Bartlett also introduced the Feb Admissions Program, which allows a select group of students to begin their studies in February instead of September, offering flexibility for those who want to take a gap semester, travel, or refresh before starting college. Additionally, Middlebury’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its long-standing Environmental Studies program, established in 1965, which enables students to pair the major with another discipline. Bartlett further emphasized Middlebury’s strong sense of community, noting that most students live on campus for all four years.
Along with having representatives available to answer student questions, each booth featured videos showcasing college life, alumni and faculty testimonials, and relevant reading materials. These resources gave students a deeper understanding of what makes each school unique, helping them refine their college search and application strategies.
Over all, the College Fair was an invaluable resource for students, providing them with direct access to expert advice and encouraging them to think deeply about their future college choices. If you’re looking to explore top universities and programs, be sure to attend next year’s summit!