For some reason, as the third semester of my college career comes to a close, I feel the need to take measure of what has happened so far. Granted, I can imagine quite a few people at RPI like to take stock at the end of every semester; I know that I’ve felt such a need ever since I first started here. However, I feel a very particular obligation to take a detailed look at the end of this semester, as it may be my final one here at RPI.
I say this because, pending a financial aid decision, I may be transferring to a different institution for the Spring 2009 semester. And, while I can’t say how absolutely sure I am about this, I am still compelled to end the semester differently because of it. If I am indeed leaving RPI, I have realized that I must consider what I would have to do beyond just the administrative, payment, and possession-concerned; I have responsibilities people-wise as well. As one can probably imagine, this is not an easy task.
My reasons for leaving RPI and continuing my higher education elsewhere are my own, and have not been constructed purely out of reaction and intense reconsiderations. What I can be open about is the sincere nature of my thanks, because the RPI community has not only reached me academically and intellectually, but has also provided for me friendships and personal relationships of the sort that demand recognition, but can never truly be repaid.
I could never have imagined, at least while still in high school, what such an intellectually-charged environment like RPI would be like. To have had the chance to be surrounded by so many genuinely smart individuals is an opportunity that has been afforded to me, and is truly beyond measure. It’s one of my most earnest wishes that I never took this for granted at any time while I was here; to have had this at some point in my life is something that has greatly influenced me, and something I will surely never forget.
I guess the purpose of what I’m trying to say here (but will never adequately be able to express) is more or less a general thanks to all who have helped to make my RPI experience what it was: remarkable. I have learned so much about the nature of myself and others from my interactions and adventures (yes, I call them adventures), that I can truly say that I’ve grown from the overall experience. In this regard I could not have asked for any more from RPI; the help and support of my friends, my growth as a student and a person as a whole. I can do nothing but express my sincerest gratitude: I thank you all, and wish everyone the best of luck as we all move toward our futures.
