Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most relatable and heart-wrenching aspects of Spider-Man: No Way Home: Peter Parker's college dreams. The film intricately weaves the superhero life with the everyday aspirations of a high schooler, and his college application process is a significant part of that blend. So, what college was Peter aiming for, and what exactly happened with his application?

The Dream: MIT or Bust

Peter Parker, portrayed by Tom Holland, isn't just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man; he's also a brilliant young mind. His academic capabilities shine through, making him a prime candidate for Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). From the beginning, MIT was Peter's dream school. He saw it as the perfect place to nurture his intellect, further develop his scientific skills, and, let's be honest, probably create some awesome new web-shooters and gadgets. His intelligence and innovative mind make him a perfect fit for MIT's challenging and groundbreaking environment.

Throughout the movie, Peter emphasizes his desire to attend MIT. He envisions a future where he can combine his love for science with cutting-edge research and development. It's a future where he isn't just saving the world as Spider-Man, but also contributing to it as a scientist and inventor. This dream isn't just about personal ambition; it's deeply tied to his desire to make a positive impact on the world, both in and out of the Spider-Man suit. He wants to innovate, discover, and contribute meaningfully to society, and he sees MIT as the perfect launchpad for these aspirations. Peter’s academic pursuits at Midtown School of Science and Technology reflect his dedication and potential, making MIT a natural next step for him. The idea of collaborating with brilliant minds and working on groundbreaking projects excites him, fueling his determination to get accepted.

Furthermore, Peter's fascination with technology and engineering makes MIT an ideal choice. The university's emphasis on hands-on learning and practical application aligns perfectly with Peter's approach to problem-solving. He thrives on challenges and enjoys tinkering with complex systems, traits that would undoubtedly make him a valuable asset to the MIT community. The allure of MIT extends beyond its academic reputation; it's also about the culture of innovation and collaboration that thrives within its walls. Peter wants to be part of a community where he can share ideas, learn from others, and push the boundaries of what's possible.

The Crushing Blow: Mysterio's Impact

However, as we all know, life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is never that simple. The events of Spider-Man: Far From Home cast a long shadow over Peter's college aspirations. Mysterio's revelation of Spider-Man's true identity to the world turned Peter's life upside down. Suddenly, he wasn't just a regular kid anymore; he was a global celebrity, a figure of controversy, and, in the eyes of some, a menace. This public exposure had devastating consequences for his college applications.

Because of the controversy surrounding Spider-Man, Peter's application to MIT, along with those of his friends MJ and Ned, were rejected. The rejections were not based on their academic merit but rather on the perceived risk and potential disruption that their association with Spider-Man could bring to the institution. This was a crushing blow for Peter, who had worked so hard to balance his superhero duties with his academic responsibilities. It felt unfair that his actions as Spider-Man, intended to protect people, were now jeopardizing his future. The rejection letters served as a stark reminder of the sacrifices he had to make and the personal cost of being a hero.

The rejection also highlighted the complexities of Peter's dual identity. While he wanted to be recognized for his intelligence and potential, his association with Spider-Man overshadowed his academic achievements. This created a sense of frustration and helplessness, as he felt trapped between his responsibilities as a superhero and his desire to lead a normal life. The situation underscored the theme of sacrifice and the burden of responsibility that Peter carries throughout the Spider-Man series. It also emphasized the importance of support and friendship, as MJ and Ned stood by Peter during this difficult time, offering comfort and encouragement. Their unwavering support helped Peter navigate the challenges and ultimately find a path forward.

Desperate Measures and Doctor Strange

Desperate to restore his and his friends' chances, Peter seeks help from Doctor Strange. The ensuing spell, intended to make the world forget that Peter Parker is Spider-Man, goes awry, leading to even greater problems. While the initial intention was to resolve the college application issue, the consequences of the spell far outweighed the initial problem. This act underscores the theme of responsibility and the idea that even with the best intentions, actions can have unintended and far-reaching consequences.

The botched spell opens up the multiverse, bringing in villains from alternate realities who knew Peter Parker was Spider-Man. This throws Peter's life into chaos, forcing him to confront not only the immediate problem of his college applications but also the larger threat of these interdimensional villains. The arrival of these villains complicates Peter's life further, as he now has to deal with threats from different universes while still trying to salvage his academic future. The stakes are raised, and Peter must make difficult choices that will impact not only his own life but also the lives of those around him. The situation highlights the interconnectedness of actions and consequences, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and responsible decision-making.

A Heartbreaking Resolution: The Ultimate Sacrifice

In the end, to save the world and set things right, Peter makes the ultimate sacrifice: he asks Doctor Strange to cast a new spell, one that will make everyone forget Peter Parker ever existed. This includes his friends, his loved ones, and, yes, even the college admissions officers at MIT. It's a heartbreaking decision, but one that Peter makes willingly to protect the people he cares about.

This act of selflessness is a pivotal moment in the film, showcasing Peter's growth and maturity as a hero. He understands that sometimes, the greatest act of love is letting go. By erasing himself from everyone's memory, he ensures their safety and allows them to live normal lives, free from the dangers associated with Spider-Man. The sacrifice is particularly poignant because it means losing his relationships with MJ and Ned, the two people who have been his constant support throughout his journey. However, he accepts this loss as a necessary step to protect them and the world. The emotional weight of this decision is palpable, making it one of the most impactful moments in the film.

The erasure of Peter Parker's identity also has implications for his college aspirations. With no one remembering him, his past achievements and struggles are effectively wiped clean. He is left with a blank slate, free to pursue his dreams without the baggage of his previous life. However, this freedom comes at a cost, as he must start over and rebuild his life from scratch. The ending leaves Peter at a crossroads, facing an uncertain future but with the potential to forge a new path for himself. The ambiguity of the ending allows for speculation about Peter's future and sets the stage for further exploration of his character in subsequent films.

A Fresh Start: The Future is Unwritten

The film concludes with Peter starting anew, living in a small apartment and seemingly ready to rebuild his life. While his college dreams are on hold, the ending implies that he hasn't given up on them entirely. He's seen studying and working towards a better future, suggesting that he might still pursue higher education, perhaps even MIT, down the line. However, the focus shifts from the specific institution to the broader goal of self-improvement and making a positive impact on the world.

Peter's decision to continue his education reflects his resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he has faced, he remains committed to learning and growing. This suggests that he will find a way to pursue his academic interests, whether through formal education or other means. The ending leaves open the possibility that Peter will eventually reapply to MIT or find another institution that aligns with his goals. However, the emphasis is on his personal growth and the idea that success is not solely defined by academic achievements. Peter's journey highlights the importance of adaptability and the ability to overcome obstacles, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.

So, while Peter Parker's journey to MIT was filled with obstacles and ultimately led to a heartbreaking sacrifice, it also showcased his resilience, his selflessness, and his unwavering commitment to doing what's right. His college dreams may have been deferred, but his potential remains limitless. What do you guys think? Will Peter eventually make it to MIT? Only time (and future movies) will tell!