With National College Decision Day (May 1) less than a month away, many seniors at Hingham High School have decided or are in the process of deciding what their post-secondary plans are, particularly what college or university they will be attending for the next four years. Over the next few weeks, The Harborlight will be interviewing seniors who have decided what school they will attend in the fall.

This week, The Harborlight interviewed senior Shay Crean. During his time at Hingham High School, Shay played ice hockey and was an avid member of the Unity Project. He will be attending Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee next fall.

Q: What school are you attending next fall?

SC: I am attending Vanderbilt University.

Q: What decision plan did you apply for?

SC: I applied for Early Decision 1.

Q: What are you planning on studying? (major/minor/etc.)

SC: I am planning on studying Economics and minoring in Computer Science.

Q: What were you looking for in a school going into the admissions process?

SC: I was looking for a competitive academic school supplemented with a good social life.

Q: Why did you choose Vanderbilt University?

SC: I had already heard amazing things about the school and upon visiting, I fell in love with Nashville. It had an amazing social scene with plentiful music and delicious food, on top of being an up-and-coming city. Also, it offered the programs that I was interested in, and had a beautiful campus.

Q: How would you describe the college admissions process?

SC: The college admissions process was demanding and stressful, especially when coupled with academics and sports. 

Q: If you could go back in time to September 2021, what advice would you give to your past self?

SC: I would tell myself to not stress so much on the little things and make the best effort to enjoy my high school experience to the fullest, as it flew by so fast. 

Q: What are you looking forward to the most at Vanderbilt?

SC: I can’t wait for a completely new experience, living on my own, learning new things, and meeting amazing people. Most of all I can’t wait to visit downtown Nashville!

Q: A message to your favorite teacher

SC: Hi Ms. Jope! Thank you for making our English class so enjoyable and always bringing such positive energy to the class. I owe it to you that I am now a better writer!

Congratulations, Shay! Best of luck at Vanderbilt University and in all your future endeavors!