Darshan Shrestha '04, who came to Middlebury from Nepal, graduated as an economics major with a minor in physics.

I found what I was looking for at Middlebury College—and so much more. It was extremely important to me that my professors knew who I was. I've always sought a process-driven learning experience, rather than just lectures. Liberal arts was the path that I wanted to follow—not because I didn't have a clue of what I wanted to do, but because I wanted to learn it all.

At Middlebury, I took all the pre-med courses while completing a major in economics and a minor in physics, leaving plenty of room to take other exciting classes. Winter term was a valuable part of all this; I took classes such as "The Existence of God" and "Digital Video Imaging." Midd really does have its own unique version of academia, and I love it for that.

But the best part of Middlebury, its heart and soul, is its people. Middlebury faculty and staff made it a home for me. … They're exceptionally helpful people who love and enjoy life to the fullest. And the integration of the College with the town of Middlebury only enhances that. I found myself volunteering as an Emergency Medical Technician with the Middlebury Volunteer Ambulance Association, working alongside people from towns all over Addison County. As a result, I have as many friends in town as I do on campus. This blend of the highest academic excellence and spirit of community is hard to find.

I left Middlebury with irreplaceable memories. In whatever field I pursue in life, I'll have a part of my alma mater with me. I give my best wishes to all Midd Kids and advise them to take full advantage of this great opportunity and to get involved.