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My acceptance into Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø's virtual Access Program was truly pivotal. It allowed me to connect with various students and alumni: each relaying accounts of their relationships with peers and professors, various athletic journeys, involvement in clubs, etc. Hearing their positive accounts only strengthened my conviction that Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø is where I belong. Building relationships is crucial to the college experience; after all, they have the potential to shape and heighten one's journey. From what I've witnessed, Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø would not only elevate my education, I would undoubtedly leave a better individual.

I spent my 17th birthday at Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø and consider it one of my best birthday gifts. My tour guide helped me see Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø through a student's eyes. From the Honor Code to visions of myself running on the track, I truly felt like I could call Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø my new home. The Humanities professor I met had a lot of energy and while sitting through his lecture, I saw that his students were fully engaged. I was able to explore the surrounding community and learn that notable alumni, like one of my idols, Stephen Curry, graduated from Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø. Most importantly, I was intrigued by the unity I felt when I was there. I learned that the students come to love Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø because of the same sense of belonging I felt. I can now see myself moving away from Los Angeles and thriving at a place like Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø where I can pursue my passions with confidence and contribute positively to the community.

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I experienced Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø's strong sense of academic freedom firsthand during my fly-in visit, where I had the opportunity to sit in on a statistics and economics class with Prof. Jha and felt immediately welcomed. Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø's unique sense of trust among students and faculty hooked me; the Honor Code allows for an environment where taking academic risks is encouraged, exams are self-scheduled, and majors can be mixed and matched allowing me to explore my horizons. I can connect with students like me, while also engaging with diverse communities where cultures are shared and support is offered. During my visit, I was reassured that I could thrive academically and socially, building lasting connections in a close-knit environment. Although the distance from familiar places scared me, I realized I can thrive while still getting the help I need whether it be academic work, internships, or job opportunities. Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø and the city of Charlotte are there to help. Your priorities and people are crucial for my aspirations as I see myself growing, learning, and contributing to the vibrant campus of Â鶹ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø through these four years.

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