On December 21, I received news that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. I got into Stanford. The amount of work- blood, sweat, and tears- I put into this was validated. The sleepless nights completing IDs, the stress that every May would bring, and being on alert all week to make sure everything was running smoothly, all of it was worth it.

My nervousness was at a point where I waited a week to open the decision. Everyone told me I was crazy for waiting, but I couldn’t check. I thought I wanted to wait so I could process the decision on my own, win or lose. But in reality, I just didn’t want to face the possibility of disappointing myself and my friends and family who believed in me despite how out of reach an acceptance seemed. But I did it! I did it! The relief, the serotonin, and the joy I feel even now compared to nothing else. Hearing friends tell me they’re proud of me and seeing my parents smile so wide, I relish all of it.

I loved the journey and the grind, and I’m so blessed that the destination is just as spectacular as everything else before it; however, what made me the happiest were my friends’ reactions and the genuine joy they felt for me.

“When I found out, I was so proud,” said senior Natalie Smith. “I felt like I got into Stanford. I was like, my co-executive editor got into Stanford. My mother told everyone she worked with. I don’t know why.”

My entire extended family and friends called or texted telling me how proud they were. I took my dog for a walk that night, and I kept jumping for joy just retelling myself, “I can’t believe I got in.”
“I was extremely proud, but at the same time a lot of us were expecting it because it’s not like you hide how smart you are,” said junior Imani Ongalo. “But overall I was extremely proud and extremely happy.”

It’s an inexplicable feeling of joy and pride to seeing those important to you smiling at your accomplishments. I never felt more supported. I never felt happier or more grateful for anything else in my life. The support system I’ve built, the friendships I’ve made, and the support and trust I’ve earned from people, made everything work out in the end. Everything is perfect.

“I was so flippin proud and excited,” said senior Jess Bennett. “But not surprised because if anyone could do it, it would be you.”