“It doesn’t come down to motivation; it comes down to discipline,” said Lance Anthony, a senior at White Plains High School who will attend Harvard College next year. He plans to major in government and philosophy.
Throughout high school, Anthony enrolled in several rigorous courses. Some of his favorites included AP English Language and Composition, AP Biology, and the school’s hallmark Science Research program. While AP Biology was among the most challenging, he found connection and support through Barnes & Noble study sessions and FaceTime groups with classmates.
But Anthony is more than just a scholar.
He played the title role in Theatre Unlimited’s production of Pippin, served as class president, and even taught boys’ Bollywood dance. Two of the biggest highlights of his extracurricular life, he said, were his involvement in political advocacy through organizations like the Student Government Organization (SGO) and Class of 2025, as well as his time in theater.
Anthony has consistently participated in plays both in and outside of school, including with Random Farms Kids’ Theater. His final production was Rent, performed outside of school and composed by Jonathan Larson—a fellow White Plains High School alumnus. For Anthony, that connection made it a full-circle moment. He hopes to continue performing and studying theater in college.
“Theater taught me how to do everything I know,” he said.
His passion for government stems from his belief in conversation and community. In 2022, he organized a youth action training event that brought together students of diverse political beliefs to engage in dialogue—and share bagels, a personal touch that helped break the ice.
That event, along with his work in SGO and Class of 2025, helped him discover his passion for public service.
Anthony encourages students to pursue activities they’re genuinely interested in.
“If you do everything for the sole purpose of college, then everything is going to be a chore,” he said.
He values authenticity and proactivity, especially for students preparing for the college application process.
“I feel like there are so many TikTok and Instagram pages advertising the right way to get into an Ivy League or any top school, but I don’t think there is a set way. Stats aren’t everything. What you see on TikTok isn’t everything. Be yourself. If a college wants you, they want you. And if they don’t, they don’t. You’re going to thrive anywhere,” he said.
Anthony was accepted to Harvard, Princeton, Cornell, Brown and Columbia.
“Going into Harvard—which is still weird to say—I feel like imposter syndrome is such a common thing people go through,” he said. “I’m scared I’ll get imposter syndrome, but I try to reassure myself that I got in for a reason. The key to battling it is staying grounded, keeping close to supportive friends, and remembering that your individuality sets you apart.”
He emphasized that test scores aren’t everything. “There are so many people who apply to these schools with perfect SAT and ACT scores. Your character sets you apart. That comes through in your essays and how you spend your free time. Don’t be afraid to take risks.”
In his application essays, Anthony focused on being honest and personal, even if the topics might not seem traditionally “serious” or “professional.”
Now, as he prepares to graduate, Anthony is deeply grateful for his experiences and community.
“I wouldn’t have had half the opportunities I’ve had if it weren’t for the incredible people—teachers and counselors—who believed in me and continuously pushed me to be my best self,” he said.
“If I could leave my White Plains peers with anything, I would encourage students to stay true to themselves and their own individual paths, make the most of every opportunity, and have fun with the people they love while doing it. Never take any opportunity for granted, talk to as many people as you can, and enjoy every moment at this school—it all goes by quickly,” he said.
