This week we welcome Senior Admission Advisor, Julissa Ortiz, to the blog. Welcome, Julissa!
Buying your first house is one of many milestones in life, and I had the joy of experiencing it earlier this year. At first, I was nervous about the process and unsure where to turn for advice. Luckily, I met an amazing realtor who guided me every step of the way.
I realized the experience mirrors what high school seniors feel during the college application process. Just like house shopping, you don’t always end up with your “dream school.” Sometimes it’s out of budget… someone else’s offer is accepted… the location isn’t the right fit… or the timing just isn’t right, and you may have to wait a little longer to find what works for you.
But once you find it, you realize every decision and every twist and turn brought you exactly where you were meant to be. During this season, when so much about the future feels uncertain and college decisions haven’t arrived yet, take a moment to reflect on the people and experiences that shaped you to be the amazing individual you are today. Your community may be bigger and stronger than you realize.
The Foundation: Roots That Hold You Up
Think about your foundation, the people who first believed in you, who taught you right from wrong, who reminded you that you were capable even when you doubted yourself. These are the ones who poured into you long before college applications or big decisions came along. They build your confidence, your values, and your sense of purpose.
For most people, this may be your parents, grandparents, siblings, or the closest people in your life. These are the people who may be right next to you when you open your college admission letter.
No matter the outcome, hug them and thank them for everything. Thank them for the sacrifices they made and for gifting you the courage to explore your options and dream big.
The Walls: Structure and Guidance
What’s a house without walls? Walls give a house structure, and teachers, counselors, and coaches have helped provide structure, along with guidance and encouragement throughout your life. Those homework reminders, senior college events, and track meets couldn’t happen without very caring individuals. Let them know this season how much you appreciate them, and if you haven’t already, especially thank those who took the time to write you a letter of recommendation. As we read your application, we truly appreciate the insight we gain from those who know you best.
The Rooms: Where Growth Happens
Each room in a house serves a different purpose, just like the different spaces where students learn and grow. The study room is where your curiosity comes to life. The field or stage becomes the perseverance room, where your effort turns into confidence. Late-night talks with friends create the connection room, where laughter and openness make space for growth.
Each room adds something unique, and these rooms are framed by your mentors, friends, and classmates who enrich your life with new skills, perspective and depth. These individuals play a big part in shaping you, and you wouldn’t be the same without them!
The Roof: Protection and Celebration
Last but certainly not least, a roof protects and completes a house. For a student, this “roof” is the community that cheers them on, celebrates milestones, and offers support when challenges arise.
When I deliver Georgia Tech admission letters, I see this roof in action: families, teachers, administrators and friends cheering students on, lifting them up, and celebrating together. As someone who works on the college admission side, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude. Your support and encouragement mean so much to your students, and it truly creates a lasting impact on their journey.
Building Your House
Wherever you go next, you bring this house with you, filled with the lessons, support, and encouragement of those who helped build it. Every person who has contributed to your journey continues to hold you up, and every new experience adds more rooms, more walls, and more strength. Carry it with pride, and remember to open your doors to new people, ideas, and opportunities.
Julissa Ortiz has dedicated her career to supporting students. She joined Georgia Tech in 2022 as a Senior Admission Advisor within the First-Year Team, bringing her experience and enthusiasm for fostering college access. As a first-generation, small-town student herself, Julissa is deeply committed to expanding educational opportunities for all. She also serves as an advisor for the Women’s Recruitment Team, a dynamic student organization on campus focused on supporting prospective women, while creating an empowered community among members.