What they say about themselves says a lot about all of us
Dear College celebrates the writing and storytelling skills of high school seniors as they apply for college admission and scholarships. Their reflections on growth, struggle, love, and maturation define the next generations that will shape America.
Season One: Fenway High School
Boston, Ma
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"I wanted nothing more than to be a mother figure ... the deeper I got into it, the quicker I realized the role was definitely not for the weak."
Class of 2023
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"Being one of two Black women in the class was intimidating, but speaking our truth is even more important."
Jenessa Otabor
Class of 2023 -
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“I wanted to confront people with the brutality of everyday racism so they could no longer ignore its existence or their role in it.”
Class of 2019
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"If I want change, then I must cause the change."
Class of 2018
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"Someone could hear this essay, and that could motivate them to do something about it."
Class of 2019
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"My new double life all started in my freshman year of high school, the moment it hit me how important it is to code switch."
Class of 2020
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"I’ll never forget the rush I felt from standing up for myself and the ones I cared about."
Class of 2020
The Dear College project features high schoolers reading and talking about their college admission essays. Our goal is to share a diverse array of experiences by reaching students across America. You can make a donation to support our expansion here.