Admissions Office
Why did you choose Union?
Union was a top choice for me very early on in my college search. I knew that my initial criteria were: 1) New York, 2) Small, 3) Liberal Arts Education.
At Union, the campus atmosphere was a lot more comforting than any other college I visited. Furthermore, while Union’s expectations for students were high, I could tell that students were supported by faculty, staff, and even other students. I knew that I wanted a college that would challenge me, but also provide me with the resources I needed to succeed. And while I thought that other small liberal arts colleges would push me, I didn’t think they had the best support resources for students. I started my search early and was confident that Union was my first choice; that’s why I applied Early Decision.
How do you describe Union to your friends and family?
I describe Union as a community of people who all want to see each other succeed – not just academically, but in our personal lives as well. My friends and family are often surprised that my professors genuinely care about how I’m doing both inside and outside of the classroom. When I was awarded the Harold A. Larrabee Prize in 2021, students and faculty who I didn’t even know congratulated me. Not many other colleges have students who get genuinely excited about their classmates' accomplishments.
What has been your favorite class assignment at Union?
My paper in favor of incorporating bugs into the western diet for Professor Barber’s “Anthropology of Food” class. It taught me to have an open mind and expand my palate.
What is your favorite place off-campus in Schenectady?
The Open Door Bookstore on Jay Street. You don’t see many old-fashioned bookstores, but The Open Door sparks my passion for reading every time I step inside.
