After driving for an hour and a half, I looked up and saw this giant building. My parents and I finally made it to Preview Day at GSSM. Part of me was so excited, but another part of me was frightened. As I walked up to register and pick up my envelope, I saw the bright, smiling faces of the current students. During the day, my parents and I went through the motions from panel to panel. I was itching to ask questions, but I was too scared. Once we were finished and returned to the North Lobby for refreshments, I stuck by my parents' side because I was too scared to talk to anybody.
 
Looking back on my experience at Preview Day, I regret letting my nerves get the best of me. I wish I had been more interactive and had socialized more with both teachers and students.

So, these are my top 3 pieces of advice I would give my younger self on Preview Day:

1. Breathe. There won’t be a quiz at the end of the tour or anything! Take a breather and enjoy yourself.
2. Ask questions. The students, faculty and staff you see at Preview Day are there to help. They want to make sure that your application process goes as smoothly as possible, so any questions you have—even if it’s a question about what the food is like—just ask!
3. Talk to a current student. The best resource to know about the GSSM experience is someone who actually goes here right now. Ask them about their favorite classes. Ask them about anything that came as a surprise to them. Ask them what their favorite meal is or what they do on the weekends.

Even though I was shy on Preview Day, I’m happy I applied and chose to come. Despite my shyness, I knew that this school was for me, and I still firmly believe it today. And now as I stand and say hello to students at Preview Day, I can say that I’m glad to meet all of them and answer any questions they may have.
 
P.S. The food is pretty good! :)
 

Student Blogger
Elizabeth Mugo
Senior, Columbia