How Your Admission Counselors Made Their College Decisions

You did it! You’ve endured late-night studying, pop quizzes, and major projects. You’ve put in the time and effort into clubs, athletics, musicals, and more. You researched colleges, visited campuses, wrote essays, and submitted your applications. And, now, the time has come to decide on where you will spend the next four years of your life!

We understand; there are numerous feelings and emotions wrapped up in this decision. Truthfully, there is no right or wrong way to feel. Whether you’re excited or nervous, sure or confused, ready for somewhere new or hoping to stay close to home, we have been in your shoes and felt those same feelings. So, our admission team is sharing how we each chose our alma mater, in hopes of easing some of the pressure and offering some new things to consider.

The following responses are from members of our admission team, including Pepperdine alumni and non-alumi.
 

Michael Rodriquez 

John Carroll University ‘20 Culver City, CA 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“When I was applying to colleges, the most important thing I always considered was the cost and financial aid. College is an investment, and I knew that going in, so I made every effort to understand my various financial aid packages and seek outside opportunities whenever I could.”

What made you commit to your university?

“During my winter break, I flew out to my university for an in-person tour and campus experience for the weekend. Seeing the campus and student life with my own eyes rather than just a screen made all the difference in illustrating what campus life would be like.”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“My biggest hesitation was moving across the country away from everyone I knew. It was something I had to consider when making my final decision, but I ultimately knew that moving to a new state would grant me the new experiences I was hoping to have during my college years.”

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“Something I didn't consider when applying was the size of the university. At the time of applying, I had submitted applications to universities of various sizes, ranging from large state schools to small liberal arts colleges. At the time, I didn't think it mattered too much, but after attending a small liberal arts school for four years, I now know that smaller classroom environments are better suited for my style of learning.” 

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“My biggest piece of advice is to look at colleges with the understanding that you are not just attending classes for four years, but also living in an active community. Just as you might consider the academics of a college, I believe it is equally important to find a community that fits you best and provides the best opportunities for your overall experience.” 

Sophie Eghliht 

Pepperdine University ‘22 Pflugerville, TX 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“Going out of state was a huge priority for me in my college search. My parents always told me it was the easiest time in my life to move away, which encouraged me to pursue this goal. That also meant finding a school with an active and tight-knit community was just  as important.” 

What made you commit to your university?

“Growing up attending a Church of Christ, I had always heard about Pepperdine. Once I did my own research, it quickly became my dream school, because it checked all my boxes. It was out of state, had a tight-knit community, small class sizes, and allowed me to incorporate my faith into an academic setting.” 

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“Cost was still my main concern during the application process.  I knew that, even though Pepperdine was my dream school, I wouldn’t go if it didn’t make financial sense. I took the time to make sure I was taking advantage of all of the scholarships I had available to me, and in the end, Pepperdine was my cheapest out-of-state option.” 

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“There are so many factors that can make a school the right fit for you. Empower yourself by doing your own research and finding schools that best align with what you hope to get out of your college experience. Think through things like,  how do you want to grow, what type of community do you want to be a part of, what type of experiences do you want to have? Academics are important, but overall fit is just as important.”

Norvashua Cottingham 

Pepperdine University ‘25 Grand Rapids, MI 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“The two main factors that contributed to my college decision were the opportunity to study abroad and the desire to attend a university where I wouldn’t be just another number. I wanted to build meaningful relationships with my professors and for them to know me beyond just a name on a piece of paper.” 

What made you commit to your university?

“Pepperdine offers its students a wide range of opportunities, particularly in academics, study abroad, and networking. Additionally, I wanted to take a chance on myself, and by moving from the Midwest to California, I was able to grow and develop in more ways than I could have imagined.” 

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“Being from Michigan and a person of color, I initially had hesitations about how welcoming the community would be, as well as whether I would be able to keep up with the rigorous, and sometimes fast-paced, academic environment.”

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“I did not fully consider the different internship opportunities and resources available, nor the environment outside of campus and what life around campus would look like, such as a college town, city, or coastal area.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“Take the chance on yourself, you are worth it!”

Alexandra Agron 

Azuza Pacific University ‘21 Sunnyvale, CA 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“I was looking for a school that had many connections/opportunities (both within the surrounding community and within the university), a diverse and strong community, caring and intentional professors, and good financial aid.”
What made you commit to your university?

“Ultimately, it lined up on all the top things I was looking for.”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“Definitely! I thought I was going to commit to a different school, and still had a hard time making a decision even after visiting both campuses.” 

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“I wasn't considering Greek life when I looked at colleges.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“There isn't one right decision. Wherever you end up will be a place you learn and grow and make friends!”

Madilyn Henshaw 

Pepperdine University ‘24 Arlington, VA 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“My faith is important to me, so I knew I wanted to end up somewhere where I could find opportunities to grow in it while also being academically challenged.” 

What made you commit to your university?

“To be honest, Pepperdine was my dream school. I had visited campus, done tons of research, and felt like Pepperdine was the place for me, so as soon as I received my acceptance letter, I wanted to commit. My parents made me wait until I heard back from all the schools I applied to, but I enrolled at Pepperdine the day I received my last admission decision!”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“I was lucky enough not to have any hesitations.”

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“Coming from the East Coast, I'm not sure I fully considered the reality of being so far from home. I grew up moving around, so I thought I would have no difficulties adjusting to a new place, but that wasn't quite the case. Of course, I did adjust, but it took me being intentional with connecting with classmates and professors to get there.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“I would encourage you to think about who you want to become. While rankings and programs can be important, the community you surround yourself with will ultimately shape your values and your perspective. Choose a school where you feel seen and supported, and where the culture aligns with the kind of impact you want to make in the world after you graduate.”

Ivery Marquez 

Lehigh University ‘23 Chicago, IL 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“Affordability! I based my decision on choosing the university with the best financial aid package.”

What made you commit to your university?

“Campus culture, affordability, and prestige.”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“I did not have any hesitations. At first, I was committed to a school I was not 100% excited about. But, I was removed from the waitlist and committed there instead.”

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“I wish I had applied to schools that were more aligned with my roots. I mainly applied to schools on the East Coast that were not in big cities. As a city person, I wish I had applied to schools similar to the environment I grew up in.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“I advise you to do all your research! Do not be afraid to reach out to counselors, attend as many events in-person and virtually as possible, and lean on your support system. It's okay not to have everything figured out! Just remember: you're not alone.”

Chelsea Taura 

Pepperdine University ‘24 Northridge, CA 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“The most important factors for me were: financial assistance and proximity to family.”

What made you commit to your university?

“I committed to Pepperdine because they offered me a great financial assistance package, they were in Southern California, which is the region where I am from, and because they prioritized the pursuit and exploration of faith alongside academics!”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“I really didn't. I relentlessly researched Pepperdine, everything from its academic programs to international programs to campus life – you name it! I especially loved its production of the YouTube series "Rising Tide," which gave me a strong sense of everyday life and the opportunities Pepperdine offered its students. Once May 1st rolled around, I was confident that Pepperdine was the school for me.”

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“I wish I had considered more the student resources that the schools offered. For example, I didn't know about the RISE program and how it helps students become more resilient academically, physically, socially, and spiritually. Or the Career Center and how it helps students grow in their professional development. I didn't learn about these until much later in my college career, and had I considered them earlier on, I believe I would have taken advantage of more opportunities to supplement and support my academic pursuits.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“Reach out to your admission counselor! Coming from somewhat of a first-gen background (my mom went back to college when I was in high school!), I had no idea there was someone dedicated to helping me walk through the admission process and make the most informed decision about where to enroll. There is someone like that at the universities and colleges that you are applying to, and all it takes is a quick email. Reach out to that person because they are here to support you!”

Tristan Hicks 

University of Utah ‘23 Thousand Oaks, CA 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“Location was a big consideration for me. I wanted to experience somewhere new, so I was mostly looking at colleges outside Southern California, but still within a short flight of home. In that, it was also important to me that I would still be able to do the things I loved, like hiking and camping.”

What made you commit to your university?

“My final decision was down to three unique schools. I had toured all of them, loved them for different reasons, and could see myself thriving at any of them. Ultimately, I chose the school that made the most sense for my family and me, given the scholarships that I had received.”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“Yes! Utah wasn't on my original college list, so I had a lot of hesitations. My high school counselor suggested it, so I applied, without thinking much of it. It wasn't until I toured campus and saw the surrounding area that I actually began to consider it seriously. “

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“One thing I didn't consider was the community. The jump from my small high school to a large university was more difficult than I anticipated. It wasn't built-in like I was used to. I had put in more effort to meet people in the dorms, know my professors, and feel supported.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“Think about where you want to be at your best and at your worst. Where will people celebrate your accomplishments, challenge you to dive deeper, and support you in your passions? But also, where will people lift you up when you're struggling in a class, sit with you when you're burnt out, and check in when you don't show up to class?”

Alex Paloglou 

Pepperdine University ‘25 San Rafael, CA 

What was the most important factor that influenced your decision when looking at colleges?

“I knew I wanted to stay in California for college. SoCal was a great distance from home, allowing me to grow while still being within driving distance. Next, cost was another large factor. Finding a school that could give me a great education while being cost-effective was key.”

What made you commit to your university?

“Pepperdine's location, small class size, and opportunities for resources made me commit. I felt like I could grow the most in a smaller environment with like-minded peers.”

Did you have any hesitations when making your college decision?

“Pepperdine's cost was my biggest hesitation. I knew there were opportunities to earn scholarships going to a private school, so I made sure to position myself so I could make my education more affordable through scholarships, grants, etc.”

What is something you did not consider when looking at colleges?

“I didn't take religious affiliation into account when looking at colleges. If a school was Christian or not, it did not affect my decision-making.”

What is one piece of advice that you would give to students who are currently making their decision?

“Identify what makes a university unique/valuable. Align yourself with the university that can get you to where you want to be, based on its characteristics!”