Lara Schmitt

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Hometown: Holbrook, N.Y.

Education: B.A. in Anthropology, Bucknell University

Favorite Bucknell Moment: The semester I was the Staff Advisor to the Caribbean Students Association for their first Annual Fashion Show and Dinner, "Carnivale". It was a privilege to work with these amazing students and watch them design and create elaborate costumes, choreograph for models with several clothing changes each, and prepare and serve delicious Cuban and Jamaican dishes to more than 80 attendees!

Top tip for applying to college: As a parent of three who are all currently in college, I've been immersed in the college prep and application process 24/7. My top tip for you regarding the essay is the same as it was to my kids: start it early; take your time writing and re-writing it to make sure your voice comes through; and don't be afraid to be honest, authentic and even vulnerable to help an admissions team get to know the real you!