White Plains High School alumni share college insights with current students

Several White Plains High School alumni returned to campus on Friday to offer students  a candid look at college life and share pearls of wisdom about preparing for the next chapter in their lives.

A large crowd of juniors and seniors filled the Media Center, where the 10 recent graduates now attending colleges answered questions about academics, finances, campus life and the transition from high school to higher education.

Students asked about everything from financial aid and professors to dorm living and managing independence.

Audrey Levin, a sophomore at Indiana University, said the goal of the panel was to help students navigate the transition and acclimate to a new environment.

“The juniors and seniors are curious about life in college, how White Plains can prepare them, and things we wish we had known before entering college,” said Audrey, who fielded questions about scholarships, time management and working with professors.

She emphasized that students should continue applying for scholarships even after their senior year and reminded them that college professors operate differently than high school teachers.

“Professors are there to help you, yes, but you really have to rely on the syllabus and take responsibility for yourself,” she explained.

Isabella Arco, a freshman commercial dance major at Manhattanville University, spoke about adapting to unexpected challenges. She shared that an ankle sprain early in her college experience forced her to rethink her plans.

“It made me more open-minded about my future and more aware of myself,” Isabella said. “It pushed me to try new things, meet more people and really build a community around me.”

Brandon Paucar, a freshman studying civil engineering technology at Rochester Institute of Technology, focused on finances and preparation.
“Scholarships are out there, and you should apply for as many as you can,” he told students.

Brandon credited WPHS teachers and guidance counselors for supporting him throughout the college application process, calling the level of experience and support “fantastic.”
 
When asked about early challenges in college, one panelist described difficulties with roommates and adjusting to shared living spaces. The experience, while stressful at times, ultimately encouraged personal growth.

Living with incompatible roommates made the student spend more time outside the dorm, exploring campus, studying in new places and meeting people. The student urged everyone to remember that roommates do not have to be best pals to coexist respectfully.

Audrey also offered practical advice on dorm life, recalling her first impression of limited space. She encouraged students to personalize their rooms and stay organized.

“Make it feel like home,” she said, suggesting the use of storage under beds and shelving to keep shared spaces neat and inviting.

The panelists also reflected on what they would do differently if they could relive their high school careers. Brandon said he would focus more on his schoolwork and take advantage of the many clubs and activities available.

“The opportunities here are astonishing compared to what some of my friends have in college,” he said.

Judah Goldemburg encouraged students to talk to more people and broaden their social spheres. He noted that the school’s diversity is a major strength.

“You’re surrounded by so many different people,” Judah said. “That prepares you for college, where that diversity is amplified even more.”

Phil Tortoriello echoed the importance of effort and engagement, saying he would have tried harder academically and stayed more involved. He urged students to enjoy high school by building relationships with teachers and peers.

“There are teachers here who played an important role in what I did in college and in my professional life,” he said.

Before ending the session, the proud alumni encouraged the students to stay engaged, remain open-minded and take full advantage of the myriad resources and relationships available to them at WPHS.