My name is Zarya Usman, a senior from Islamabad, Pakistan. I attend Future World School and College, formerly known as Roots. From the moment I began my IB MYP, I have always wanted to study abroad. Why? Because I’ve known since early high school that I want to explore law, and I’m convinced that the U.S. education system would prepare me best for that journey. Canada was a worthy backup, but deep down, my heart was always set on America.

Academic Foundations: High School

I started with intensive IB MYP studies during O-levels and ended up scoring 50 out of 56, which is equivalent to two A*s and eight A’s. I then began my AS Levels (Grade 11), earning three A’s and one B. I dropped math after AS since I wanted to focus on my other subjects: sociology, business, and English for A2 (Grade 12). That move helped me dive deeper into the fields I truly wanted to explore, not merely check exam boxes.

Though many U.S. colleges are test-optional, I chose to take the SAT three times. It was a small growth each time, something I’m proud of. It started with 1400, then jumped to 1440, then finally to 1480 which I submitted to colleges. That last score strengthened my application, because I always think it’s a good idea to add test scores if you did well.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

My school roles mainly served as the deputy head girl, and I was elected head girl this year. Most of my extracurriculars were found in the things I did as a head girl. I:

• Organized multiple Model United Nations, Olympiads, and school-wide events

• Developed a student-led extracurricular forum to help others explore opportunities

• Began a peer-tutoring initiative, so students could help one another

Creative Expression & Music

Creativity has always been something that spoke to me. I showed this in my college application in different ways. Firstly, I held an art exhibition that focused on beauty standards and questioned social norms which was a subject that was deeply personal to me.

Music is another important part of me. I competed in flute competitions early on, later shifting focus to piano. I teach myself piano and share covers on Instagram and I’ve recently started learning violin.

All of these activities of mine were displayed on my website.

My College Journey: Applications & Acceptances

Out of approximately 14–15 applications across the U.S. and Canada, I received multiple offers:

• Grinnell College: a full scholarship

• George Washington University: acceptance with an annual $27k scholarship

• University of Toronto: merit-based offer

• Hamilton College: need-based full-ride

I received my Canadian decisions after my U.S ones, but I was already set on the school I had chosen. Hamilton wasn’t the only great option; it was the best one for me.

The Power of Interviews & Authentic Storytelling

Even though some colleges label interviews as “optional,” I found them to be game-changers. My Hamilton interviewer left a glowing note; at Grinnell, I secured a post-deadline interview just by asking. So, one of my biggest pieces of advice is to always take the interview if they offer one.

I also learned the power of authenticity. I didn’t shy away from sharing my single B. Rather, I addressed it as part of my growth story. I think that honesty seemed to strengthen my narrative and my connection with admissions people.

Putting It All Together: Essays & Recs

The Hamilton application included:

1. A counselor recommendation

2. Two teacher recommendations—from my O-levels English teacher and AS/A2 sociology teacher

3. An optional letter from a peer

I started drafting my personal essay in June, tested versions through October, then undertook a decisive rewrite between November and December.

Why Hamilton Was "The One"

Hamilton offers the best of multiple worlds, not just the full ride I received. For one, it has an open curriculum, which is great for me since I’m interested in multiple fields like pre-law, sociology, linguistic,s and more. I also won’t have to take any classes I don’t want to.

Another reason was the inclusivity. There are a lot of international students like me there, and everyone knows each other since it’s a small college, so I think it’s really supportive in that way.

Hamilton also offered so many opportunities. There are internships in Washington, D.C, pre-law advising, and a pathway to Columbia Law in my junior year.

Of course, the full-ride played a huge role. I was fortunate to receive full aid and that largely impacted my decision.

In contrast, Grinnell also offered an open curriculum but without the same depth in pre-law support. So, because of all these reasons I chose Hamilton.

Preparing for the Next Adventure

I’m set to arrive at Hamilton in August. I’ll study sociology as an undergrad, with a long-term eye on law school in the U.S. I expect to graduate four years later, ready to step into legal work.

My past visits to the U.S., including educational conferences and having family there helps me feel grounded, not overwhelmed. Hamilton’s support systems for international students and wide-ranging extracurricular options mean I’ll always have something to keep me busy and not constantly missing home.

Advice for Aspiring Students

To fellow Pakistani students with global dreams- don’t let money or uncertainty hold you back. Many universities offer need-based aid and scholarships. I never imagined I’d receive a full ride to Hamilton, but my application showed my potential, and you can do it too.