Applying to college can be an exciting yet daunting experience. For most high school seniors, the process is usually a mixed bag of emotions and activities: from choosing the right school, to deciding on the right major and enduring the experience of waiting for decisions from the schools.
On the other side, the experience is not too different for admissions teams. In putting together a freshman class year after year, the Ashesi admissions team deals with a whirlwind of activities. From school visits and information sessions across Africa to reviewing applications, reading essays and finally making admission decisions, the team works long and hard to find students who will contribute to the Ashesi community.
[Director of Admissions and Financial Aid]
“Ideally, we look out for well-rounded students,” said Araba Botchway, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid. “Generally, our idea of a successful applicant is one who is actively engaged in and out of classroom. We are also keen on expanding our diversity by reaching out to more students across Africa.”
In making decisions, the Admissions Committee considers several markers about the students, including the interview, which is a key step in the process. “The interview helps us know the person coming in beyond the application,” said Nina Pels of the Admissions team. “It gives us a fair idea of how the students will impact the larger Ashesi community and beyond. Most importantly for the students, it encourages a lot of them to think through what it takes to excel.”
[The Admissions Team looks forward to further expanding diversity in the years ahead]
The admissions process is essentially a two-way street. While the applicants deal with putting their best foot forward, Ashesi’s admissions team works to not only select brilliant students, but also puts together a year group that will continue to drive Ashesi’s mission.
“Interacting with successful applicants around campus a year or so after they gain admission and seeing their growth is exciting,” said Zeina Kowalski, Admissions and Financial Aid officer. “That transformation and the potential impact it has beyond the walls of Ashesi makes the admission process worthwhile.”
To apply to Ashesi, or to learn more about the process, visit the admissions page.