For prospective students who have their sights set on Barnard over any other college or university, applying Early Decision is a no-brainer. That was the case for current high school student Janhitha Veeramachaneni ’29, one of the College’s newest and most excited members.
“As someone passionate about civic engagement and social change, I knew I needed an environment that would push me to think critically and act boldly,” she said. “The energy of Barnard, its strong sense of community, and its location in the heart of New York City made it the perfect fit.”
Nevertheless, when the New Jersey native received her acceptance letter email from Barnard in December, she waited to drive home from a grocery store run before opening it — “the most silent car ride of my life!” Getting a yes from the College was an unforgettable moment for Veeramachaneni, who saw it as validation for all of her hard work.
Instant tears started flowing as I realized that I was GOING TO BARNARD.
Like most of Veeramachaneni’s Class of 2029 peers, she has already boldly stepped into leadership roles. For example, while a high school student at New Jersey’s Infinity Institute, Veeramachaneni was an N.J. YMCA youth advocate, New Jersey High School Democrats’ political director and chair, and a legislative intern for State Sen. Raj Mukerji of Jersey City. Last year, the Anti-Defamation League recognized Veeramachaneni, on behalf of her high school, with their Cynthia Marks Student Legacy Award, through their “No Place for Hate” program, for her advocacy work with students to create “inclusive school communities.”
Veeramachaneni also participated in the nonprofit National Education Equity Lab program, which offers high-achieving high school students the opportunity to take courses — fully funded — from the nation’s top colleges and universities, including Barnard. While Veeramachaneni didn’t take any courses on campus through the Equity Lab, she made up for it in February when she visited to audit “First-Year Seminar: Language and Power,” with chair of the Department of Philosophy Karen S. Lewis, and “Metropolitics of Race and Place,” taught by Angela M. Simms, assistant professor of sociology and urban studies.
Interested in connecting with others, Veeramachaneni said she’s “most looking forward to meeting people who share my passion for public service, learning from incredible professors, and getting involved in the City’s political scene.”
Learn more about one of Barnard’s many accomplished incoming first-years below:
96% of Barnard’s Early Decision cohort are in the top 10% of their class.
Why Barnard?
I first became interested in Barnard when I realized I wanted to be in a place that values leadership, intellectual curiosity, and real-world impact. After learning about Barnard, I knew that it would be the place for me to live out my dreams because it reflects my values of change and leadership. I am fond of how many students say that faculty members encourage students not just to learn but to lead. The Athena Center for Leadership, the opportunity to take classes at Columbia, and the chance to be surrounded by driven, bold, and socially responsible women made my decision easy.
How are you preparing for your first-year experience?
This summer, I’m looking into different ways to prepare for college, [such as] through leadership initiatives. [Once on campus], I’m especially interested in the Liman Fellowship Program, which would give me the chance to take small, discussion-based seminars and work on an independent research project. It’s an opportunity to explore ideas in a more interdisciplinary way, and I’m excited by the challenge.
What are your future Barnard plans?
I plan to major in political science, focusing on civic responsibility and corporate social responsibility. I’m also eager to get involved in student government, advocacy organizations, and publications like the Columbia Political Review. I want to continue using social media as a way to mobilize young people for civic engagement.
How do you feel about becoming part of the campus community?
I’m beyond excited to join the Barnard community this fall! I can’t wait to engage in deep discussions, build lifelong friendships, and immerse myself in everything New York has to offer. I am a true believer in using education to create change, and I know Barnard College will help me grow into the kind of leader I hope to become.