Michael Foley
Girton and Bright Families 1693 Scholar
Hometown
Stafford, VA (Brooke Point HS)
Areas of Interest
Economics, business and pre-law
Why W&M
I first visited William & Mary when I was eight years old, accompanying my sister on one of her many college tours. What first struck me about the school was its rich and storied history. Somewhat of a history buff, I could think of no better place to spend my college career. I was thrilled by the opportunity to walk the same streets that countless historical figures had centuries ago. As I grew older, however, William & Mary’s intrigue began to fade. Desperate to get out of the state of Virginia, I hesitantly placed it on my college list.
By the time Finalist Weekend rolled around, I was still uncertain about where I wanted to attend college. Naively believing I already knew everything I needed to know about William & Mary, I didn’t expect that my experiences at Finalist Weekend would significantly impact my decision. I was pleasantly blown away. From almost the first minute I stepped foot on campus I was struck by the strong sense of community. Everyone I met was so friendly and welcoming, I saw William & Mary as someplace I could easily make a home.
I was also aware, however, that appearances can be deceiving, and so resolved to put my emotions aside and take a pragmatic approach towards my college decision process. I busted out a spreadsheet on my computer and began to weigh the pros and cons. Fortunately, my spreadsheet confirmed what I already knew in my gut, that William & Mary was the place for me. The opportunities to pursue undergraduate research, connect with professors, study abroad, and explore my interests in unique ways were unmatched by other schools on my list.
As I have connected with my future classmates and continued to explore the opportunities that await me in Williamsburg, there is no doubt in my mind that no matter how I look at it, William & Mary was the right choice.
W&M Activities
- 2023 IIC Conservation Research Program
- Social and Fundraising Chair of Undergraduate Moot Court Society
- Disinfolab
- Geopolitics of Technology Initiative
- Analyst for Mason Investment Club
- Delta Chi Fraternity
- Club Rugby
High School Activities
- Captain of Scholastic Bowl Team
- President of Latin Club
- President of Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) Chapter
- Captain of Varsity Tennis Team
- Varsity Soccer Team
- Boy Scouts
- Intern at MD & K Homes
- Virginia Cello Ensemble
- Inspire to Vote
- Leader of Model United Nations Club
Awards / Distinctions
- Valedictorian
- 6th Place (International) DECA Business Finance Services
- 2nd Place Global Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge
- Summa Cum Laude National Junior Classical League (NJCL) Convention Essay Contest
- 5th Place NJCL Convention Art History Exam
- 2nd Place (State) DECA Principles of Finance
- 1st Place (State) DECA Virtual Entrepreneurship Challenge
- Commonwealth Governor’s School Interdisciplinary Award (2019, 2021)
- Boys State Delegate
- National AP Scholar with Distinction
