Hi! I'm Fahim Mosharrof, and I'm from Dhaka, Bangladesh. I'm currently studying at Haverford College, one of America’s leading liberal arts colleges, where I'm majoring in Computer Science and Physics, with a minor in Economics.  

High School Background 

For the entirety of high school, I attended Mastermind School in Dhaka where we were given the option in eighth grade to take O-Levels and A-levels through either Edexcel or Cambridge. I chose to take them through Cambridge. I studied 10 subjects for my A-levels, including Chemistry, Physics, Economics, and Math. Studying at a British-curriculum private school certainly made the application process easier to a certain extent. When applying through Common App, for instance, they accept standard curriculums like IB, A-levels, and AP. Hence, taking exams under those curricula is beneficial for a better representation of your academic abilities. 

Also, when attending an English Medium school, I cannot speak for others, but there always seems to be a community of students interested in or planning to apply abroad. Personally, I find this aspect even more important than the exam and the curriculum because having a supportive group of peers who share similar goals is very motivating. Collaboratively tackling the admissions process made it more manageable in my experience. I've always rolled with a friend group of seven people, and all my friends are either already are or going to top places this year. As a matter of fact, I arrived in the US with three of my seven friends. I'm at Haverford, one is close by at Cornell, one is at UToronto and another is far away at Stanford. Moreover, this year, one of my friends got into U-Miami as well.

I'm simply trying to say that these people aren’t going to magically appear in your life when you're applying out of nowhere. However, if you can seek out the shelter of a community, definitely do it with friends. It makes the process fun and easier. If you observe closely, many people who have been successful in getting into top colleges did recommend this specifically. Furthermore, you can strategize because when we were applying, we knew each other's profiles and we knew the profiles of people who had gotten in previously. So when we mutually knew that either of us could get into the same college, we used to strategize our applications. What do I mean? Imagine that my friend and I were EDing (early decision applying), to the same prestigious university knowing fully well that it was anybody's shot, and that either of us could get in. In that case, why compete against each other? Both of our profiles were very strong and very similar because I did many Olympiads with him. So his ECs were my ECs, and my ECs were his ECs. So why do this? Why put it up to chance? Instead, we’d discuss and end up EDing to two separate universities. So when you're with friends, you can strategize. You can distribute your applications. Remember that as far as you’re concerned these top universities will take one person from Bangladesh that year, so ask yourself, are you that person?

Why America, and Why Haverford

I want to pursue a career in technology, although I'm not completely sure, I'm 50/50, maybe 60/40, on whether I want to start a career in my home country, job-wise. However, I was sure that I wanted my academic faculties and skill level in technology and natural sciences to be beyond what I could fulfill in Bangladesh. I needed the education quality and the resources that exist there. Even if you attend LACs, the labs are so advanced compared to a Bangladeshi STEM university like BUET, the top university for engineering and technology in Bangladesh. I don't want to talk down on anyone; I'm just saying that the extent of the resources is much greater. You can learn much more when you have more facilities at your disposal.  

There was a motive, and I mainly pursue, you could say, a double passion in the sense that I pursue tech, but I am also really into humanities, especially finance, economics, and philosophy. Winning multiple international economics Olympiads is also one of my biggest extracurriculars besides the robotics Olympiads that I did.

So, if I had to summarise my selling point, I would say that I am a technical person at heart. I have loved computers from a very young age, but I don't want to be purely technical; I don't want to be a computer. I love science because I love to understand the world around me, but I also want to be a well-rounded person. I want to be an entrepreneur. I want to understand people, communicate effectively, and just be a well-rounded human being, not just a tech bro. This is why I chose a liberal arts college so that I can grow those faculties as well. Technical skills I can gain, and I'll be very honest with you—I'm pretty sure your average BUET undergrad will surpass my coding skills. But will they surpass my intellectual skills? That's what I came here to learn. 

Besides, I required substantial amounts of financial aid to cover the vast expenses that come with being an international student. Hence, it did not take much research to conclude that pretty much no other country reliably provides that except for the US. 

Haverford, I loved it in terms of academics, amongst other factors. It has an excellent computer science department and one of the best physics and astrophysics departments in the states. Alongside that, I loved the location. Located just outside Philadelphia, the environment seemed beautiful and eventful, to say the least. We’ve all grown up hearing about colleges like Williams or Amherst, but when you check their location you realize that they’re in the middle of nowhere! As for Haverford—I can go to Washington in two hours. I can go to New York in two hours. These comparisons may seem insignificant, but trust me when you’re alone in this country as an international student, it helps. I was also acquainted with some of the professors in the Physics and CS departments. The CS department is great for a liberal arts college, and the Physics department is excellent, full stop. The Math department is really good too. Despite holding it in such high regard from the beginning, I was unable to fathom how awesome Haverford was until I got there. The people, the vibes, the location—everything.

My Stats

My high school GPA is 4.0. Regarding grades and A levels, I took 10 subjects and achieved A stars in all of them. At AS level, I took four subjects and earned A stars in each. When I applied, I didn't submit my A2 level grades yet; I applied before taking the A2 level exams. So, my school provided predicted grades for the application. I received predicted A stars in all four A levels based on my AS results. I also took the SAT and my total score is 1480 (EBRW 720, Math 760).

Application Journey: Resources, Essay and Rejections 

Quick advice, although you’ve likely heard it many times before when you’re applying, do not craft a generic application. Navigating the application process for top colleges requires more than a common approach; it demands a deep understanding of each institution's distinct offerings and opportunities. Universities aren’t schools, so it is not just about finding a place suitable for you to go and learn from the teachers. Universities do research; universities create knowledge. Can you contribute to that knowledge? Do you have the potential to make use of their resources and contribute to their academic research and community? That’s what they are also seeking. In other words - do your research. 

When I applied, I completed my applications independently without any external help. Each application took about two weeks to complete. My college essay follows a montage format, divided into five paragraphs. Each paragraph tells a story of a quality in my character that I possess today. For example, one paragraph explains how I learned responsibility and selflessness while growing up with working parents. I connected this experience with my admiration for Batman, who also grew up without parents, and how he and Spider-Man taught me important life lessons. The essay concludes with reflections on these experiences.

Dealing with rejection was a challenge, especially since I was new to the process and unaware of how many people use agencies. My Early Decision application to Rice reflected my lack of experience and preparation. Despite rejections from top schools, I found reassurance in being accepted into Michigan State's Honors College with a scholarship that made it financially feasible. I’d definitely say I was better prepared for Regular Decision rounds. Though I wish I had spent more time refining my applications, I ultimately made it to Haverford so it was worth it. 

Extracurriculars

I am asked this question a lot when I talk about applications and studying abroad: "Should I do this? Must I take that action? Should I go to that conference or compete in this Olympiad?" It's important to remember that this isn't about crossing things off a checklist. Making an application to a college is like writing a story. For example, if you are applying to the physics department at Harvard, you must be able to show that you have a true and ongoing interest in physics. Your extracurricular and academic activities (ECAs) ought to be indicators of your progress in that area rather than a compilation of unrelated accomplishments.

Allow me to elaborate with a personal story. Despite coming from a family and a nation that wasn't very tech-savvy, I had a strong interest in computers from a young age. When I was eight or nine years old, my dad's office gave me an old Dell 3300 computer, and that's when my journey started. Curious, I disassembled it and put it back, learned how to install games, utilize the terminal, and a lot more. My love for computer science (CS) became more and more apparent as I moved through the academic system. Twice a week in fifth and sixth grade, I volunteered to assist classmates who were having trouble with their CS assignments. This passion led to my participation in the Informatics Olympiad and my placement in the top 50 of the National High School Coding Competition. As you can see, my journey expresses my strong commitment to CS. 

Later, I dug deeper into robotics, which allowed me to turn my passion for computers into physical creations. I only learned about robotics comparatively recently, yet I took part in the Robotics Olympiad twice. I was a finalist in the Bangladesh Robot Olympiad. I then achieved a silver medal at the World Robot Olympiad Bangladesh, which is a US-based branch of the international competition.  

My journey also includes a focus on finance and economics. Since I was young, I have been fascinated with economics. It is fascinating to me how, like physics, economic concepts can be applied to real-world situations. My growth and passion in this profession have been proven by winning a silver medal at the World Economics Olympiad and Global Economics Olympiad, and representing Bangladesh at the International Economics Olympiad. 

My profile also included a lot of information on volunteering. I contributed to the mental health club at my school where I would respond with assistance and support to anonymous distraught individuals via Google Forms. I also oversaw the community service club, which coordinated food drives and contributions. In addition to my academic pursuits and voluntary work, I led the robotics and business clubs, took part in several business contests, and placed in the top 100 of the Young Tycoons Business Challenge, a startup pitching competition.

As I think back on these experiences, I want to stress that the story you are writing for your college applications should be complemented by your ECAs. It's about displaying your growth, enthusiasm, and how you can contribute to the academic community of your chosen institution, not about gaining recognition for the sake of it. With this strategy, your application will genuinely speak for you to admissions committees rather than seeming like a haphazard collection of accomplishments.

Post-Acceptance 

I have about $17,000 in EFC. Haverford met all of my requirements. Private universities such as Haverford provide financial aid instead of scholarships. Unlike public institutions in the US or Canadian universities, a scholarship is not the only way to make it affordable for you to attend. For example, a public university like the University of Michigan cannot give financial aid to international students. They cannot because there are two funds for financial aid in the US. One is through FAFSA, and the other is through CSS, which is about $10 million per year. We international students are only eligible for the CSS. FAFSA is only for US students. So state colleges like the University of Michigan cannot give financial aid to us. They can only give scholarships. The problem with scholarships is that it's a fixed amount. Even if you get $100,000 in scholarships, it's divided over four years. Not to mention all the other subsidiary costs that come with attending college.

One can receive need-based financial help at a private college such as Haverford. When they accept you, it seems as though they embrace you and then go to whatever lengths to get you there. That's the concept. When I got admitted, I required roughly 90% financial assistance. They gave me 90% financial assistance. That’s how it works.

Speaking of all the secondary expenses that pop up, many students don't realize there are underlying costs to consider once they get into college and move to the US. For example, beyond books and supplies, are there other expenses to keep in mind?

Books and supplies are probably the least expensive if you pirate all your books. But other than that, it's not that difficult to understand that you are setting up a new life in a new country. Many things you took for granted at home are now an expense. For example, you show up and realize you need a mirror, a lamp, baskets to store your toiletries, and your toothbrush—things that were just there at home but are not here now. 

Transportation is another significant expense. Transportation from the airport to college, from college to the airport, or anywhere else you need to go can add up. Subscription costs are another factor. You will need to subscribe to a US SIM card, which is a cost. Small costs add up, like cleaners, glass cleaners, and dishwasher supplies. For the US SIM subscription, you have to pay regularly. For example, I'm subscribed to Mint, which is popular among international students because it's the cheapest. I pay for unlimited service at $15 or $30 a month. 

Yes, might seem like little things, but as we know, little things go a long way.

Haverford: Academics and Campus Life

Indeed, Haverford has lived up to my expectations, particularly considering our close proximity to Bryn Mawr College. These two universities were formerly like brothers and sisters; Haverford was exclusively for men, and Bryn Mawr was still exclusively for women. That was before the 1970s. They are a great match for one another. I bring it up because Haverford includes Bryn Mawr College in addition to Haverford College, the campus, and all of its amenities. 

We register for courses on the same website, so we are truly incorporated. The registration process for courses at Bryn Mawr is identical to that at Haverford. Both campuses accept our one card for checking us into the buildings. You are welcome to arrive at any time to dine and attend classes. Every college also has its artistic focus. Haverford, for instance, specializes in music, whereas Bryn Mawr specializes in film studies and has a larger theater, among other things. So you might come to Haverford and think, "Oh, my college doesn’t have a pool." No, it does—just go to the other one via the blue bus that runs every 15 minutes and is free. So I feel like the main advantage is the plethora of options, for sure. 

As for the work-life balance at Haverford, it depends on your courses and extracurricular activities. After entering college, extracurricular activities only get more intense. You'll quickly realize that there is just too much going on on campus for you to keep up with. And that's coming from a very tiny institution (Haverford), not from a large university, in particular. Yes, you will need to work if you choose challenging courses like I did. However, having a close relationship with your instructors and teaching assistants is beneficial.

We all have a personal connection with our professors. They know our names, they know who we are. Instead of a big college where you have 300 people in one class with you, here you have at most, say, 30. Your professor knows you. Moreover, if something comes up, you can say, "Professor, I'm working jobs, my job just started, I had this conference I had to go to, and I cannot submit this assignment on time." You can be human with them, and they understand.

In this environment, it’s not like we are teachers and students anymore. In the world of research and academics, your professor and you are technically colleagues. The difference is that they are much further along in the research than you are, but you both do the same job of furthering that research. Having that personal connection helps a lot. I’m not ashamed to say that I take a lot of extensions and pursue my other passions, and they are always very reasonable. The workload is taxing, but the people make it manageable. 

The student body is not as diverse as in some other colleges. It might not feel as diverse because even if the proportions are right, the absolute numbers are lower. For example, if Cornell has 5% South Asian students out of 15,000 students, that’s hundreds of South Asians. But if Haverford has the same 5% out of 1,200 students, that’s just a handful of people.

However, the community is very welcoming. I have not experienced any kind of rudeness or negative behavior from anyone here. Rather, I watch myself to ensure I am not showing any kind of adverse behavior.

Beyond classes, I work jobs, engage in clubs, and might go on trips during breaks. For example, I have two jobs on campus, and I am a board member of the CS club. We are working on a semester project together. On spring break, you’ll surely see me traveling to New York. I also went to New York during the fall break! Between these endeavors and academics, your day runs out. You don't sit around thinking, "What am I going to do?" There is always something to do.

Internship Support

We have our CCPA, Center for Career and Professional Advising. They'll help with resumes and connecting with alumni. We also have a separate Haverford social media called Haverford Connect, or HaverConnect which is basically a platform with all the alumni. Our alumni are indeed a massive help to those who need it. 

I can't speak for internships outside of tech because I'm not experienced in what they require, but for tech internships, you have to build your resume, make projects, practice interview-style questions, and all of that can be helped with. We have support for that within the CS club I mentioned earlier. So yes, connect with alumni, use CCPA and Haverford Connect. Your peers, I’d say, are the best resources for internships because colleges are not exactly focused on getting you into, let's say, Google. Frankly speaking, it’s not their priority, so you’re pretty much on your own in this aspect.

Post-Grad Goals

I'll be very honest, I am not completely sure. As of the moment, however, I am leaning mostly towards pursuing a career in physics. Everything I do is likely to supplement that. Having an eager interest in computational physics, I'm currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in both CS and physics, and I plan to do my master's in computer science. By the time I do my master's in computer science, I think I will be skilled enough in the inner workings of compilers, computers, and algorithms to transfer that knowledge to further my physics research.

As I mentioned, I want to pursue a PhD in physics. Haverford will contribute to that greatly, especially because we have a very personal connection with our professors. This comes in handy when they have to write recommendation letters for the postgraduate colleges you'll be applying to. Often, you'll find that the professors here are from the colleges you're applying to. Almost every professor here is an Ivy League PhD grad, so they can often talk to their friends residing in those colleges. So yes, having that personal connection surely helps, rather than being in a class where your professor has to write recommendation letters for 500 kids, resulting in very standard, cookie-cutter-style letters.

My Advice

Start early. Be sure you want to apply abroad and start early. Prepare early. Reach out to the admissions and application community, which I completely did not do. Take it from me—if I had known it existed and started applying and preparing earlier, everything would have been different. If I could go back in time, I would have started thinking about applications one and a half years before I actually did. It's kind of a miracle that I managed to pull off what I did in such a short time.

And again, engage with the application community. Go to groups like Bangladesh Beyond Borders (a Facebook group created for high school students in Bangladesh who wish to study abroad). Visit Reddit communities (like IntltoUSA), see what people are saying, and see what people are doing. Engage with YouTube videos and other resources and, of course, engage with the university. Demonstrated interest is a part of the application process that I completely skipped. You are showcasing demonstrated interest every time you book a campus tour, get on their email list, or have an interview. Your engagements will stay in their records, and when they start reviewing your application, they will see that you have been engaging with the college's material for the past few years, for example. Now, demonstrated interest won't make or break your application—in fact, none of this advice will guarantee you an acceptance—but it most certainly helps. It always helps to start early, communicate, and work hard.