“I realized that UChicago was a place where I would be surrounded by the brightest minds of my generation, and an environment conducive to free and unfettered intellectual discourse.”
How did you learn about UChicago? When did you first know that UChicago was the right college for you?
I first heard about UChicago early on in high school while learning about Enrico Fermi, and from that point on I began to learn just how many experts were affiliated with the University. It wasn’t until I spoke to students at the College, however, that I could envision myself being a part of that impressive academic tradition. I realized that UChicago was a place where I would be surrounded by the brightest minds of my generation, and an environment conducive to free and unfettered intellectual discourse.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned since arriving on campus?
Back at home, even in a cosmopolitan city like New York, I lived in a fairly homogeneous environment. Being on campus among so many different people of unique backgrounds has taught me that you can learn from anyone and everyone, and that both the diversity in and shared aspects of our upbringings and lived experiences make us collectively a stronger and more interesting campus.
What has your UChicago experience been like outside of the classroom?
Learning here extends beyond the classroom, it continues in unexpected places. I’ve learned just as much in informal settings, and in a wider range of topics, than I have in my formal education here. The most mundane conversations can and often do turn on a dime into lively debate over science, ethics, philosophy, politics, art, etc.
If you could speak directly to the person whose gift supported your scholarship, what would you say?
Without your generous support, I never would have been able to attend UChicago. The University is an incredible place that I’m deeply grateful to be at, but it would have been impossible to afford without the aid I received. The gift of scholarship money is one that has provided me with an unparalleled academic experience and an environment in which I can develop intellectually, as a citizen, and as a person. I am so thankful to you for contributing and providing me the means to be here.
