Hear from a 2023 Rokpa College Fair Attendee

Following a successful 2023 NYC College Fair, we received a lovely letter of appreciation from one of our attendees. We would like to thank Jigme for his sweet note and welcome others to attend our future events.

Dear Rokpa,

My name is Jigme, and I went to the Rokpa College Fair and Conference this summer. 

Being without parents or relatives with background in the college application process, I’ve heavily depended on online resources and the help of Rokpa mentors these past few months in the development of my CommonApp. However, specific questions regarding financial aid and preparation for interviews, among many others, were left unanswered as I scoured the internet for answers pertaining to my unique situation. When word of this event reached me, I knew this was the perfect opportunity for me to fill in the gaps in my understanding. 

The event began with a little introduction, and then quickly transitioned into the main content. The provision of three different periods for guidance from experienced coaches on topics of your own selection (SAT prep, interviews, financial aid, etc.) made the event extremely personalized and beneficial to everybody, provided that one went into these blocks with intention and focus. Following this was the Q&A session, in which Topjor asked a couple of college admissions officers general questions about their approach to choosing between applications, suggestions to students on how to stand out, and many more. This both enlightened me with a better grasp of the admissions officers perspectives and solidified my general knowledge of the process, but what followed was the most insightful activity of all – the college fair. 

The parking lot was packed with numerous tables with students representing their colleges, many of which being the “top of the top” schools. Each student was passionate and well-informed in their respective university, but most importantly, most of these representatives were Tibetan. This provided for a uniquely insightful experience, as the questions I asked each representative could have specific emphasis on the incorporation of my Tibetan identity into the applications and interviews. For example, I learned a lot from the Stanford students as I bombarded them with questions about EC’s, tuition, specific majors, etc. They answered every question clearly, speaking from their own Tibetan experience, and further handed me their contact information in case I had any future questions. To end it off, there was free boba, which is always great! 

Ultimately, the event was both fun and highly educational; the organizers made sure to implement various activities and small additions to keep it enjoyable, while also maximizing the educational aspect by prioritizing not only college admissions’ advice, but that of students as well.

Thuchiche, 

Jigme

If you would like to see more events like this, please donate to Rokpa by visiting Donate — ROKPA (rokpamentorship.org).