Tonight, the Rose Scholars had the privileged of listening to Dan Schwarz speak about the basic outlook any student should have in regards to their college journey. As a freshman, there is a type of free-pass one is given during their first semester; basically, it is a chance to mess up, try new things both good and bad, and experience life in a completely different manner. As a sophomore, there is more pressure in relation to declaring a major, finding internships and jobs, and maintaining a solid network with friends, family, and teachers. As a junior, the end of one’s college experience is almost at its end and realization of careers or furthering one’s education are balanced amongst more specialized courses. Finally, as a senior, the choice of whether to continue forward as a student or enter the working world is decided. But, there is no doubt that all students should take advantage of their four years as a college student, because aside from an education, the experience, relationships, and growth that is obtained is priceless.

Reflecting on my freshman year, I can attest to the fact that the transition from high school to college is life changing. I grew up thirty minutes from the city of Miami in Florida and only dreamed of studying in Cornell, knowing the level of competition and prestige the school held. One of the most difficult obstacles for me to overcome was being separated from my family and friends who I have grown up with my entire life. It is curious that even though I was never physically alone – I made friends on my floor, in classes, and in various organizations – it was difficult to remind myself of who I was and not get swallowed up in the crowd. There is a certain powerful emotion that overcomes any student that is on their own for the first time, and that is independence. The fact that any action or decision taken or made respectively depends only on oneself and not whether “my friends said this”, or “my teacher told me that”, or “my parents said no”.

That is not to say the privilege of independence should be taken advantage of, nor that it affects all students negatively. Being on your own in a school where everyone is talented, intelligent, and “has their own space” as professor Schwarz puts it, it can be intimidating and exciting trying to find where it is one belongs. This talk reminded me that being a student comes first, and getting an education should, for the most part, be a joyous experience, because it is the transition into reality. Focusing on good grades and the future is inevitable, but taking part in fun activities, traveling, and meeting others is also a part of being a college student. Thus, with “resilience, resourcefulness, and resolve” as Professor Schwarz, one can be sure to optimize the years spent completing a major and ultimately figuring out the next step after graduation.