When I learned that I'd been awarded a scholarship to Middlebury from the Posse Foundation [a national program that recruits multicultural teams of inner city student leaders to attend selected colleges and universities], I remember enthusiastically viewing the Middlebury Web site. I couldn't wait to be surrounded by brilliant scholars and faculty members in an intimate college environment, and I hoped Middlebury would provide me with the freedom to explore new opportunities. Back then, I had no clue just how much Middlebury would surpass all of my expectations.
Not only did I find everything I hoped for, but I also made friends with people from all around the world. The international atmosphere on campus has encouraged me to live vicariously through my classmates' experiences, as well as comprehend issues that extend beyond my country's borders. During my freshman year, my roommate was from Nepal. It was always great speaking with him about his country and his cultural heritage. After learning about Nepal and seeing the Himalayan poster on his wall every day, my most rewarding experience was being able to hang out with him in New York City and show him my hometown. Someday I hope to visit him in Nepal and see the Himalayas in person as opposed to on his wall. It is great to know that we have started a friendship at Middlebury that will definitely last a lifetime.
Reflecting on my years here, I can honestly say that I have had all kinds of experiences-from racing to hand in papers to racing in crew regattas, from dancing for the Riddim World Dance Troupe on campus to dancing in clubs in Beijing, from having lunch with fellow students to discuss entrepreneurial ideas to having lunch with Fortune 500 CEOs to discuss future careers. I am also one of two students appointed by the president of the college to serve on the strategic planning committee's steering committee. I try to make the best of every moment I spend here by seizing opportunities and connecting with people from all over the world. Middlebury has taught me that the only things set in stone on this campus are the walls themselves and one's experience truly depends on what one makes of it.