Pilar Brooks

Writing Specialist

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(Did you ever notice that many of the admissions officers you see are in their mid-20's? They are oftentimes the first readers of applications, and therefore, it's valuable for our students to get writing feedback from the Gen Z professional perspective.)

I’m Pilar, I graduated from Rollins College in fall of 2019 with a BA in art history and a minor in studio art. I am currently part of the Getty Conservation Post-Baccalaureate program working at the Getty Research Institute and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. I am also a Fulbright Semifinalist. Before college, I went to Winter Park High School and graduated from the International Baccalaureate program. Not only did I make it through the college application process, but I am currently preparing my applications for graduate school, so I completely understand what current high school students are going through.

I’m a first-generation college graduate, raised by my mother and grandmother. My mother never finished college, and my grandmother never had the opportunity to go at all. While both of them were incredibly determined to support me in furthering my education, we often look back now on how much we wish we’d had an instruction manual for the entire process. Trying to make it in the niche and competitive field of art conservation, I can’t say too much has changed. My life is still full of filling out applications on somewhat dated websites, writing personal statements, and hearing “no” too many times to count. However, I promise it’s all worth it. I’m thrilled to be able to use the knowledge I gained through research and networking, the support of my professors, and simple trial and error to help other students get through the admissions process and find their own career paths.