Senior Lobby Observer Co-Editor in Chief Haley Welsh, recognized as one of WHS’ twelve season athletes and National Honor Society secretary, is being acknowledged for another accomplishment: she was accepted Early Decision to The College of the Holy Cross.

When she started her college search, Welsh admits that she felt overwhelmed. However, advice from a role model helped her through the process: “Coach Anderson once told me: ‘Don’t go to the best school, go to the best school for you.’ I wanted to find a school that I loved, and I found it in Holy Cross.”

To begin the college process, Welsh created a list of schools. She comments: “I knew I wanted a small school community that I could connect with. I think Holy Cross combines big school spirit with a small school community, and I love that.”

Other schools on her list included Boston College, Providence College, and Villanova University.
But in the back of her mind, it was always Holy Cross. Her father, Brian, attended the school and wanted to make sure she knew about all the college had to offer. Welsh was drawn to the liberal arts core curriculum.

“I know it can help me explore my interests, as I am undecided in a major at the moment. Though I was not necessarily looking for a religious college, the Jesuit spirit giving back to the community really spoke to me,” says Welsh.

Welsh decided to apply early decision to Holy Cross after deciding it was her top choice. Though she was confident in her choice, she felt intimidated by such a binding decision.

Welsh comments, “I think I was afraid to make the decision because it is such a big commitment. I talked to friends, teachers, and parents about the pros and cons of each school, but in the end, it was my decision.

“Ultimately, I knew that Holy Cross was the only school for me, and I’m happy to call myself a Crusader.”

Welsh has advice for future college applicants. She recognizes that E.D. isn’t right for everyone: “Be sure you know it’s the school for you. But whether it’s October or April, you’ll know what school is right. It may feel stressful, but give it time.”

So, will Welsh fall victim to the infamous “senior slide” now that she’s committed?

She says, “It’s comforting knowing that all my hard work has paid off and that I can ‘ease off the pedal’ a little bit, but of course I’ll continue to try my best in my classes. Academics are important to both me and my future college.”