“My name is Pablo, and I’m currently a lab technician stationed at the United States Army Research Institute of Chemical Defense. As unfortunate as it is, all good things must come to an end, and although I’m sad that I’m leaving the Army in the next couple weeks, I’m beyond ecstatic to say that last week, I received my acceptance letter to attend my dream school this fall. It’s still pretty hard for me to comprehend the fact that it’s really happening. I’m really going to an Ivy League school. For the most part, everyone knows these universities are only for the most elite students, but I’d never picture myself as the type of student they were looking for. I’m not a legacy, in fact I actually am the first one in my family to go to college.

I had good grades in high-school, even took AP classes and everything; but I kind of wish someone took the time and showed me how to apply to schools. I didn’t know what Common App was, I had no clue where to even begin when it came to ordering transcripts. I felt just as lost as I did 5 years ago when it came to applying to schools the first time.

Fortunately, I was able to get in contact with Ivy Coach, where I met its director, Mr. Brian Taylor. He explained that the work ethic, experience, and values the military holds so dear are the same ones that the most prestigious universities are looking for in their applicants.

Everyone has their own story, and Mr. Taylor helped me tell mine. It felt great being able to write about growing up working on farms, my experience working in research, and what I was planning to do with the school’s resources you can’t find anywhere else. It made me remember why I was applying in the first place, and what was once a scary process was now making me more motivated to apply. Words can’t begin to describe how thankful I am to Mr. Taylor and Ivy Coach for everything they’ve done for me, all pro bono too!

With their help, I’m proud to say I will be attending Columbia University this fall and finishing my undergrad in environmental science, taking full advantage of the epitome of urban ecology. Thank you Ivy Coach, for everything!”