Each year, the graduating class is invited to participate in the annual College Essay Contest and like clockwork, we are routinely floored by our students’ high level of writing and creative expression. This year was no exception. Of the 25 seniors who chose to participate, three were selected by the College Essay Committee: 

• In first place: Anya Mathur ’24
• In second place: Cavin Xue ’24
• In third place: Peter McGinnes ’24

We invite you to read their work here. Read all together, it is an impressive bouquet — bright, beautiful essays, each completely different yet matched by their profound impact. We can imagine the constraints these writers faced — a word limit, a specific prompt addressed — but it’s not clear to the reader that they faced any challenges putting pen to paper. There’s courage in their writing — there’s playfulness and personality — there’s personification, metaphor, a fearless look inward.

We have no doubt that whatever lies ahead, these Pioneers can rely on their strength in writing as a powerful tool in their kit. Congratulations to our winners and to all who submitted their work. We are proud of you.