Meet the Minerva Freshmen - Alice Pagani

Describe yourself in 3 words!

If I had to pick three words to describe myself, I would say: curious, passionate, and adaptable. I am the kind of person who loves to dive deep into ideas, feel everything fully, and still find ways to embrace the unexpected. I have always been drawn to challenges that push me out of my comfort zone, especially those that let me connect with people across different backgrounds. I am really excited to be a part of a community that values deep thinking, creativity, and global connection.

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What has been your reaction to your letter of admission?

I froze. Completely. I stared at the screen for a while, thinking it might be a mistake. Or worse, a joke! After all, it was April 1st, which is “the day of lies” in Brazil. But once it finally sank in that it was real — that I was going to Minerva — I cried. I felt proud, relieved, grateful, and overwhelmed… everything at once. It was a beautiful moment of realizing that all the effort, the vulnerability of the process, and the risks I took had led me somewhere that felt just right.

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What made you apply to Minerva?

Minerva checked every box I did not even know I had. I have always dreamed of experiencing the world from different perspectives, so much so that I applied to universities in seven countries, across three continents! But when I found Minerva and its global rotation, something clicked. It was not just a college, but a way of living and learning that aligned with my biggest dreams. I wanted a place that would challenge me, excite me, and surround me with people who are driven by curiosity and purpose. So when I heard about Minerva, I knew: this was it.

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What is something that positively surprised you about Minerva’s application process?

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To be quite frank, basically everything. I expected forms and essays, but I had not anticipated actually enjoying the application process. The challenges — especially the creative and logic-based ones — made me think in new ways and helped me reflect on who I really am. It did not feel like I was trying to “sell” myself. It felt like Minerva was genuinely trying to get to know me. I also loved how each part of the process felt intentional and thoughtful: not like a test, but more like a conversation. It was the first time I thought that a university valued not only what I had done, but also how I think and who I want to become.

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Do you have any mentors who inspired or supported you during your Minerva application process?

Pietro de Silva, a fellow Brazilian Minervan, was a huge support during the process. Pietro answered all my questions and gave me a sense of what to expect. His guidance helped me stay grounded and focused. Having someone who had already walked that path and was still so passionate about Minerva made all the difference. It turned what felt like an intimidating journey into something I could navigate with more confidence and clarity.

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What is a personal goal you have for your first year at Minerva?

I want to build memories. With people, with places, with ideas. Live the experience fully, but also find balance between studying, new personal projects, and truly experiencing San Francisco. I tend to get caught up in “doing everything,” so I hope this first year teaches me how to prioritize being present — to be fully here, wherever “here” is. Whether in a classroom, at a cultural event, or just walking with a friend, I want to show up with intention and curiosity.

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Can you share a specific (academic) interest you are eager to explore more at Minerva?

I am eager to dive deeper into intercultural relations. I have always been fascinated by how people connect — even (or especially) when they come from vastly different cultural backgrounds. I want to explore how identity, history, and communication shape how we interact across borders. Growing up in Brazil, a country shaped by many cultures, taught me how rich and complex these dynamics are. At Minerva, I will be surrounded by people from all over the world, and I see that as a living classroom. I cannot wait to study the theories behind cross-cultural understanding and live the reality of it every day.

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If you have connected with your classmates already, what are your first impressions of the M29 community?

I just love the M29 community! Everyone has been kind, thoughtful, funny, and real since the first messages. I have seen people cheering for each other’s wins, offering help, and being vulnerable, even before we have officially met in person! It feels like a group of people who are not only smart and passionate but also genuinely supportive and open-hearted. It is rare to find a space where you feel safe to be your whole self and be inspired by everyone around you. I am excited to learn with them and from them.

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Can you share a piece of advice for future applicants?

Be yourself — fully, messily, unapologetically. I know it sounds cliché, but Minerva is not looking for perfection; they want curious, reflective, and real people. Do not try to fit the mold – share your quirks, questions, and story. The application is a chance to explore who you are, not just prove what you have done. Also, do not underestimate the challenges! They might feel strange at first, but lean into them. That is where the fun begins. Trust yourself, trust the process, and know that if Minerva is right for you, you will feel it in your gut. I did.

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‍If you were inspired by Alice’s story and are seeking a college experience that will teach you valuable pragmatic skills that will enable you to change the world, consider applying to Minerva.