From Passions to Purpose: How High School Extracurriculars Shaped One Alumna’s College Path
Meet Beryanny, a graduate of The Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx (TYWLS Bronx). With a passion for law, business, and history, she is exploring different opportunities in college while also making time to volunteer at admissions events for both TYWLS and Fordham University. Learn more about Beryanny’s journey from high school to college below!
Benefits of a TYWLS Bronx Education
Attending TYWLS Bronx gave me so many opportunities to explore my interests and grow both academically and professionally. One of the most meaningful experiences was participating in Careerwise, where I was selected as one of seven students in the school for an apprenticeship. Through this program, I worked at Mastercard and was introduced to a corporate environment at a young age, where I learned important lessons like professionalism, effective communication, and how to carry myself with confidence. The experience pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and helped me see the value of putting myself out there. What made it even more impactful was the skills that I gained and the network I built, especially with my supervisor, whose guidance encouraged me to ask questions, take initiative, and trust in my abilities.
My history classes at TYWLS Bronx also played a big role in shaping my interests. Learning about social movements and systems of power and change sparked my interest in policy and the legal system. That interest led me to join Defying Legal Gravity, a legal literacy and empowerment nonprofit, which deepened my understanding of the field and helped me realize that I want to pursue a career in law.
Factors to Consider in Making a College Decision
When it came time to decide on a college, I thought carefully about what mattered most to me. Financial aid was a major factor because I wanted to choose a school that felt right both academically and financially. I spent time comparing aid packages and thinking about the kinds of support each school offered. At Fordham University, the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) staff made a strong impression on me because they were welcoming, supportive, and made it clear they wanted me there. Participating in the HEOP summer program helped ease my transition into college by allowing me to build relationships, learn about campus resources, and feel more prepared before the semester began.
The opportunity to dorm through HEOP was also important because it allowed me to fully engage in campus life while receiving academic and community support. When I told my mom that HEOP granted me on-campus housing, a highly competitive opportunity, she was so happy for me. While my grandma needed time to adjust to the idea of me being far from home, my family ultimately encouraged me. Knowing I would be entering a space where I felt supported and valued helped confirm my decision.
Advice for Students Applying to College
For students preparing for scholarship interviews or meetings with college admissions representatives, my biggest advice is to be thoughtful and prepared. First impressions matter, so presenting yourself neatly and professionally helps set a positive tone. Introduce yourself clearly and share your interests so people understand who you are. Come with questions about resources, opportunities, and support systems because this shows genuine interest and curiosity. Most importantly, be yourself. Interviews are a chance to share your experiences, your goals, and what motivates you. Taking time to reflect and practice talking about your journey can help you feel more confident.
My journey has been shaped by taking advantage of the many opportunities available at TYWLS, thinking carefully about my choices, and learning to advocate for myself. I hope sharing my experiences helps other students feel encouraged to explore their interests, ask questions, and recognize that they belong in spaces where they can grow and succeed.
