Undergraduate / Google/ "Hands Out, Eyes Open"; Barnard Supp/ First learn? "majored in unafraid" [6]

Thank you so much for any advice you can offer. :)

A.) How did you first learn about Barnard College and what factors have influenced your decision to apply? Why do you think the College would be a good match for you?

A simple Google search marked my first encounter with Barnard College. Barnard ticks off all the boxes on my mental checklist of expectations - students who are academically driven, a location allowing for a sensible balance of play and work, and school traditions that bring the whole student body together. After delving into Barnard's history, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Zora Neale Hurston '28, an author whose books I have read many of, was an alumna of this establishment. Being an avid fan of her works, I always believed Hurston had an impeccable writing style that pulled at the heart strings of many of her readers. Knowing that Barnard had contributed to nurturing not only Hurston but many other individuals' talents reinforce my belief that Barnard is where I want to be.

C.) Alumna and writer Anna Quindlen says that she "majored in unafraid" at Barnard. Tell us about a time when you majored in unafraid.

On April 2, 2012 at 6:11PM, I performed at the Brooklyn Open, an event held by the Brooklyn Public Central Library to support fellow teenage poets, spoken word artists, and emcees as they present their material. Growing up, it wasn't wrong to say that I had a visceral fear of public speaking. I loathed having to present myself in front of others and I was afraid of being scrutinized even more. I didn't believe I had the intellect nor the wit to enamor my audience; to say the least, my self confidence was zilch. Years ago, the sheer idea of performing on stage would have made me nauseous. But there, under the glare of the spotlight and amidst a dim room with seats only partially filled up, I was able to recite my poem, "Hands Out, Eyes Open."