Cultivating Excellence Podcast EP 17: The College Journey - A tale of two students
Aug 13, 2025
In this lively discussion, Sawyer Chisholm, a Mathematics major at the University of Chicago, shares his post-pandemic college application journey, influenced by his father's academic legacy. Harry Resnick, a freshman at Wesleyan University, describes his experience navigating an open curriculum, emphasizing personal fit over rankings. Together, they reflect on the emotional challenges of college admissions, adaptability during remote learning, and the importance of resilience amidst rejections—all while highlighting the significance of authentic connections in choosing the right school.
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Ivy Day Pain And Personal Loss
- Sawyer described the emotional toll of Ivy Day rejections and coupled personal loss.
- Rejection days can compound with other life events, intensifying the pain.
Peer Intensity Drives Academic Growth
- UChicago's environment matched Sawyer's expectations: high-achieving, competitive peers fuel academic motivation.
- He values classmates who understand material deeply and push him to work harder.
Rebuilding Social Life Post-Pandemic
- Harry spent ninth grade remote and rebuilt social confidence slowly after returning to school.
- He credits later involvement in theater and camp for reclaiming social expression.