Barnard College/How did you first learned about Barnard & Why you think it's a good match?

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?

Is this a good start?

Encouraged by my persistent college counselor and mother to head into the daunting college process rather early, I began my search by casually perusing a comprehensive catalogue, making the ultimate promise to help me find the perfect school. Fortunately, a couple of pages in, I stumbled upon Barnard College. The refreshingly beautiful image of a woman peering over the edge of a terrace, overlooking what seemed to be the streets of New York City, instantly gravitated my eyes toward the College's information.

I don't really get this part. What made the promise to help you? Perusing the catalogue? Maybe it'll be easier to understand if you break down that long sentence. Other than that, it's pretty good.