by Kelly Filipczuk ‘24

         In my junior year of high school, I visited Pace with my family. We went on a tour of different areas within campus and got to ask our tour guide questions. Towards the end of the session, the conversation focused on Honors, particularly the qualifications needed to get in and the bond that forms between its students and faculty. My tour guide stated that her friend was an Honors student and that he had nothing but good things to say about the community. It is safe to say that I was intrigued following the tour.

         Upon returning home, I had already found out more information about the Honors College from their website. I learned that a mentor would be assigned to me for my freshmen year, that I could register for classes earlier than other students, and that there would be events held often with the goal of creating community among Honors students. Having a mentor to ask questions when needed and to be a familiar face was important to me. College is a big change, especially when moving from a small town to a city. I knew that having a mentor that I could rely on would help with my transition from high school to college. I also learned that Honors academic advisors only work with Honors students and that there is strong encouragement to meet with one another throughout the school year. To me, this signified being both seen and supported.

         Towards late November 2020, I received my Pace decision letter, which detailed that I had also been accepted into the Honors College. I was thrilled to read such news! It was easy for me to decide on Honors, as all the information I had been given provided me with a sense of comfort and ease. In being a part of the Honors College for two years now, I can write with confidence about the community established here. So much effort goes into making us an Honors family!