Why I Chose Gettysburg College

Before making my decision to attend Gettysburg college I went on numerous college visits starting in Virginia and traveling all the way to Massachusetts. As a student athlete, I was searching for the complete college experience with academics, athletics, and a social setting. I took tours of different campuses, set up meetings with college coaches and attended camps at the schools I was most interested in. Softball gave me a different perspective on what to look for in a school. When I stepped onto campus at Gettysburg, I got the feeling that this was the place for me. Although the campus only consists of around 2,600 students, it certainly did not feel like a small college when I visited. Everywhere I looked I saw students participating in various sports, people walking around in Gettysburg attire, eating with friends, studying, or participating in extracurriculars. I knew Gettysburg was a competitive academic school but when I heard about all of the opportunities the college had to offer it was an easy decision. At Gettysburg I have the chance to get involved in clubs, internships, Greek life, leadership positions and even study abroad all while being part of the softball team.

Gettysburg is known for their small class sizes and low student to teacher ratio. Hearing about the small class sizes versus some of the other schools helped me make my decision as well, I knew I would get the best education with hands-on learning and creating relationships with professors that would know me by name. I felt like it was important to get to know my professors on an individual level and to not just be another face in a crowded classroom. The professors at Gettysburg are always willing to help and will go out of their way to meet with you, even outside of normal office hours. Gettysburg College had one of the friendliest campuses that I had visited. Each time I toured this college or attended a softball camp there were always so many people willing to share information about the school and tell me about their experiences. This aspect really stood out to me and showed me what makes Gettysburg so special. 

Lastly, I knew Gettysburg was right for me because I have always wanted to play college softball, study abroad, join a sorority, join extracurriculars and get a high-level education. At Gettysburg I am able to experience all aspects of college life. This was a deciding factor because at schools that offer Division I sports programs, I would not have the ability to join a sorority, participate in clubs and study abroad while playing a sport. Hearing about other people's experiences at Gettysburg helped to inform me that Gettysburg was more than just classroom learning. This year alone I was able to experience softball, take a leadership role as a unity member for my freshman class, play intramural volleyball, join the Business club and participate in campus service events. I am glad I made the decision to attend Gettysburg College and I look forward to the next few years!