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We recently opened our Lantern Scholars fly-in program application for Fall 2024 and sat down with Senior Assistant Director of Admissions & Coordinator for Access and Equity Emily Santana to learn more. Read on for Emily’s thoughts on Lantern Scholars and the college search! 

Tell us about the Lantern Scholars program. What do students need to know? 

The Lantern Scholars program is an initiative designed to support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds by providing them with a comprehensive introduction to ÀÏÍõÂÛ̳. The program aims to offer a firsthand experience of life at a women’s liberal arts college, and to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to consider applying and attending. The program includes overnight stays, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the campus environment.  

What kind of programming can students expect over the 3 days on campus? 

Lantern Scholars will spend 3 days on campus, including attending our Fall Open House on the last day of their stay. Over the course of the Lantern Scholars program, students can expect to experience campus life by staying in a college dorm, getting a real feel of student life, experiencing campus dining (allowing students to experience the dining facilities and variety of food options available) and exploring ÀÏÍõÂÛ̳’s campus through a college tour that highlights key locations and resources.  

Students will also have the chance to sit in on classes to understand the liberal arts classroom experience and teaching style, as well as interacting with current ÀÏÍõÂÛ̳ students who can provide insight into their academic and co-curricular experiences on campus. Students will also participate in information sessions about the college’s academic programs, support services and extracurricular activities.  

Overall, the Lantern Scholars program allows participants to gain a realistic understanding of what it’s like to attend a women’s college and a liberal arts institution, while networking with other prospective students, current students, faculty and staff on campus in the hopes of fostering a sense of community and support.  

"Seeing their faces light up as they discovered the bustling market, tried local foods, and explored the vibrant downtown area was truly memorable."

Any special memories from the program last year for you? 

One special memory from last year’s Lantern Scholars program for me was visiting and exploring the city of Philadelphia with the students. Taking them on the train, watching them explore Reading Terminal Market and Center City, and being able to connect with the city of Philadelphia, which I call home, was a special experience. 

Seeing their faces light up as they discovered the bustling market, tried local foods, and explored the vibrant downtown area was truly memorable. Sharing my personal insights about the city and watching them appreciate its history and culture made me feel like I was helping them see Philadelphia as a potential home for their college years. It was a wonderful way to blend the academic and social aspects of their visit to ÀÏÍõÂÛ̳, and it left a lasting impression on all of us. 

What have you found most meaningful about coordinating Lantern Scholars so far? 

What I have found most meaningful about coordinating the Lantern Scholars program so far is the opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative impact it has had on students: helping students from historically underrepresented backgrounds explore a college environment that they might not have considered otherwise and providing them with the tools and knowledge to envision themselves in higher education; being able to form meaningful connections with the students and see them connect with current ÀÏÍõÂÛ̳ students and faculty ; and observing students as they navigate the program, participate in classes, and engage in discussions are all particularly meaningful. I love being able to watch them grow in confidence and gain a clearer understanding of what it means to be at a women’s college and a liberal arts institution.  

Any advice you’d like to offer students in the college search process? How can a fly-in program help them build out a college list? 

Navigating the college search process can be both exciting and overwhelming. Here’s some advice for students who are embarking on this journey and some insights into how a fly-in program like Lantern Scholars can help build out a college list:  

1: Start Early – begin researching colleges and universities as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time to explore different options and understand what each institution offers.  

2: Identify Your Priorities – think about what’s important to you in a college experience. Consider factors such as academic programs, campus culture, location, size, extracurricular activities, and support services.  

3: Engage with Current Students – talk to current students about their experiences, they can provide valuable insights into the daily life, challenges, and opportunities at the college.  

4: Consider Financial Aid and Scholarships – investigate the financial aid packages and scholarship opportunities offered by each school. Understanding the financial implications is crucial in making an informed decision.  

Fly-in programs like Lantern Scholars can help build out your college list as well through:  

1: Immersive Experiences – A fly-in program allows you to experience the college environment in a way that a regular campus visit might not allow you, since you stay in dorms, eat in the dining halls, and engage in campus activities, providing a comprehensive view of student life.  

2: Academic and Social Insight – By attending classes and participating in discussions, you gain a real understanding of the academic rigor and teaching styles at the college. Interacting with current students and faculty gives you insight into a school’s social dynamics and community values.  

3: Exploration of Surrounding Areas – Fly-in programs often include tours of the surrounding city or town, helping you understand the broader community and opportunities available off-campus.  

4: Diverse Perspectives – Meeting other prospective students from diverse backgrounds allows you to hear different perspectives and experiences, which can help broaden your understanding of what to look for in a college.