Seventy seniors received an admissions decision from eight Connecticut colleges and universities at West Haven High’s second annual Decision Day on Nov. 19.

Over the course of the day, students received 101 college acceptances and over $1 million dollars were awarded in merit-based scholarships, leaving seniors feeling very proud of themselves.

Decision Day gives seniors the opportunity to receive early admissions decisions from participating colleges. This year, Quinnipiac University, Eastern Connecticut State University, University of New Haven, Southern Connecticut State University, Gateway Community College, Western Connecticut State University and Central Connecticut State University were in attendance.

At the event, admissions representatives from each school had a ten-minute interview with each applicant in the auditorium, at the end of which students were told on the spot whether they were accepted or denied.

“It felt great to get accepted into these schools because it’s something that I and my classmates have worked for,” senior Luis Berrios said.

Family members were invited to join students in celebrating what would be their first college decisions.

“My family supporting me on decision day was amazing because they understand the hard work and struggles I have been through to get to this point,” Berrios said. 

This momentous event not only gave students the opportunity to receive early admissions decisions, it allowed them to learn how to properly prepare and dress for a formal interview.

This occasion could not happen without the school counselors, who are extremely excited to see their students’ hard work paying off.

“This is one of the best days ever,” said Holly Benedetti, one of West Haven High’s school counselors.