Why Barnard? Anonymous

When I was in eighth grade, during the 2012 Presidential Election, I ran to represent President Obama in my American History class’ mock election. Despite the obvious differences between the President and myself, I believed that with preparation, competitive campaigning, and an intellectual speech that I could be elected. However, when the votes were counted, it was not my speech or campaign that held me back, but my gender and the fact that my class did not feel that a girl could be president.

Since that day, I have been an unapologetic feminist, driven and passionate about politics and government. My devotion to female empowerment and commitment to grassroots organization and politics led me to apply to Barnard, where I will not only have the opportunity to make an impact, but the education that will give me the preparation to win any election.

Barnard Alumni are, undoubtedly, at the top of their fields and, during my campus visit, it was not hard to see the foundations of future leaders around me. Within just 15 minutes of sitting in the Diana Center, an impromptu Fight For $15 Rally broke out and students vigorously answered the questions of a prospective student with such interest and spirit that their pride for Barnard...