Name: Maeve McNamara
Class Year: Sophomore
Major/Concentration: Political Science/Peace and Conflict Studies
Hometown and State: Brewster, MA
What was something that stood out to you about Holy Cross?
The alumni are what stood out to me about Holy Cross. They are so involved with the school and are clearly very excited to help out current Holy Cross students when it comes to networking, internships, and jobs.
What was most nerve-racking about the admissions process, and how was this resolved?
My interview at Holy Cross was the most nerve-racking aspect of the admissions process. It was really more of a conversation, though, with no trick questions, so there is no reason to be as nervous as I was!
What was something you looked forward to experiencing at Holy Cross?
I looked forward to feeling at home and a part of the community at Holy Cross. Transitioning to college life can definitely be a challenge, but you pretty quickly feel like a member of the community.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
My favorite spot on campus is the first floor of the Hogan Campus Center. It is the perfect place to see people you know or to hang out and study. There are so many beautiful spots on campus, though, so it is hard to choose just one!
What do you like talking about most on campus tours?
I like to emphasize the connection between professors and students at Holy Cross. Due to small class sizes, students are actually able to go to office hours and really get to know their professors. Holy Cross has really incredible professors so it is a cool opportunity to get to know them outside of class.
What have you learned from being a tour guide?
From being a tour guide, I have taken notice of places or things on campus that I would not have otherwise. As students, we get used to the campus around us, but to a family that has never been here before, certain things stand out. I have had several families visiting for the first time who were shocked that we had a cemetery on campus. It was never something I thought was really peculiar but, as a tour guide, you get that outside perspective that makes you look at the campus differently than you might otherwise.
What is your favorite thing about HC?
My favorite thing about Holy Cross is the opportunities it has given me, in meeting amazing people and professors, and all the opportunities I will have after graduating.
Once you graduate, what will you miss most about HC?
Once I graduate, I think I will miss being a student at Holy Cross. Although I won’t miss all the homework and papers, I think it will be really strange to come back and visit as an alumna, rather than a student.
What is one piece of advice you would like to give to prospective students?
The admissions and interviewing process can be really overwhelming. I would advise prospective students to simply show passion for something. You have to think about what you offer a campus community. Find that thing that makes you different or special, or simply something that you are passionate about!
What is the most exciting event you’ve attended this year?
The most exciting event I attended this year was the Hanify-Howland lecture given by former U.S Ambassador to the United Nations, Samantha Power. It was an incredible opportunity to get to meet her and hear her speak!
Name: Allie Silge
Class Year: Sophomore
Major/Minor: Economics Major, Art History Minor
Hometown and State: Lake Forest, IL
What was something that stood out to you about Holy Cross?
I was drawn to the small class size and liberal arts education.
What was something you looked forward to experiencing at Holy Cross?
I looked forward to the Jesuit education and clubs available on campus.
What do you love most about interacting with prospective students/families?
I love sharing with them my own experiences and how I have grown as a student, person, and friend while here at Holy Cross.
What do you find prospective students are most concerned about and what advice would you give them about it?
I think that prospective students are most concerned with the academic rigor. I reiterate to them that the professors are more than willing to help you succeed and there are so many different resources available on campus to do well.
What makes HC special for you?
I love the community present on campus. It is so inclusive and feels just like a family.
What is your favorite thing about HC?
My favorite thing at HC are the variety of clubs and activities available.
Once you graduate, what will you miss most about HC?
I will miss my friends the most when I graduate.
What is the most exciting event you’ve attended this year?
The most exciting event I attended this year was the Open House! I love the energy!
