“The secret of success is to be ready when your opportunity comes.” ~Benjamin Disraeli
As the end of another academic year quickly approaches, we are getting ready to say goodbye to another amazing class of seniors. The Class of 2023 had an interesting college experience, beginning their journey about six months prior to a global pandemic and then returning to the new normal to complete their time at Syracuse University. Through all the challenges, trials and obstacles they faced, this group maintained a connection forged during Summer Start that was unlike one we have seen before. They intentionally built a community that stood by each other and built each other up while maintaining their individual presence in our programs, within their schools and colleges, Syracuse University and their future communities waiting to welcome them in their next phase of life. Below are just a handful of their experiences in HEOP and SSS at Syracuse University.
Congratulations to the Class of 2023! The world is waiting for the people you are meant to be and we cannot wait to see where your next steps take you.
Yhanelly Ruiz
The College of Arts & Sciences
Communication Sciences & Disorders and
Spanish Language, Literature and Culture
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
When I first came to Syracuse University as a first year student, entering Summer Start was nerve racking. It was the first time I was truly going to be by myself and away from my loved ones and friends. I didn’t know what to expect because everything was so foreign to me and I had to find a routine that made me feel comfortable. I didn’t have much expectations for the next four years, but I do remember telling myself, I should be able to find a major that I like because I did come to Syracuse undecided. I should join extracurriculars to get out of my comfort zone because it’s a new start in a new a school. I had expectations to find a group of friends that I’m comfortable in and attend events that the university hosts. I just wanted my college experience to go as smoothly as possible.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
There have been many lessons I’ve learned during my time at Syracuse. Expecting the unexpected is one of the biggest things I realized because throughout my freshman year we experienced Not Again SU and COVID-19. Having several classes canceled because of a manifesto being aired in the library and protesting against the university’s lack of transparency to stop hiding racist acts students were committing was something I was never expecting. Having my sophomore year to be a hybrid format because of COVID-19 was such a weird time and honestly a blur. Just make sure you go by the day because you’re truly never ready for what college can throw at you. Having a support system and being able to take care of yourself is important. Also, your grades do NOT define you as a student. We beat ourselves up for not having the perfect GPA or test scores but at the end of the day, we have qualities as a person that we have enhanced throughout the years and the person that entered SU, is not the same person who graduates SU. Just try your best and don’t be afraid to ask for extensions on assignments. Professors/instructors are understanding so it’s okay to ask for help.
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
Something that I wish I would’ve known before beginning my college experience is that as college students, we are eligible for EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer). Once you get to live on south campus or off-campus, make sure to apply to EBT because I would’ve saved so much money the last 2 years (it only works if you don’t have a meal plan – and yes dining dollars is a meal plan). There is also a food pantry available to us on south and main campus if you do live in a dorm or can’t get ahold of EBT. Something I also wish I would’ve known is to not spend so much money on textbooks. Only spend what you have to and try to find the online version for free, they have a lot of PDFs online, you just need to do a deep search.
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
I have many fond memories from my college experience that I always look back to. I feel that the last minute plans always turn out the best because they were never expected. It’s more of an impulsive decision and I love it when all of my friends and I agree to do something. From late night walks, bowling, or going out, there’s never a dull moment. Being able to cross into Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad/Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Inc was a fond moment because I got to meet my line sisters and create a special bond with them! I got to meet so many great people in Greek life and a few of them are also a part of HEOP/SSS, so seeing familiar faces was nice.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
HEOP and SSS have supported me immensely throughout my time at SU. They are the reason why I was able to adjust to Syracuse and have a smooth transition. Being able to attend Summer Start was a great experience because I was able to meet my close college friends and now roommates. I was able to explore the empty campus, get to know the academic resources the school offers and get used to the ‘college’ environment. The office is my second home because it feels welcoming and I love being greeted by Michelle. My counselor is the person I go to when I have questions or doubts. He is able to give me great advice academically and in life. HEOP/SSS gave me the opportunity to travel to Portland and Seattle to attend the NCORE conference (National Conference on Race & Ethnicity in Higher Education). It was an enriching experience because I got to attend workshops, network with professionals, and travel to the west coast. I currently work at the front desk for the HEOP/SSS office and have been for the past 2 years. Being able to see counselors every day, greet and help students, and help around the office is one of my favorite things to do. I look forward to coming in because I get to de-stress and feel at home. HEOP/SSS has made my time at Syracuse worthwhile and I’m very grateful for the program and counselors!
What’s next after commencement?
After commencement, I hope to start graduate school in fall 2023 to get my masters in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP). I am an aspiring bilingual pediatric SLP and I am currently applying to grad schools in Syracuse and NYC. The timeline is to get my masters degree in 2024 or 2025, take my PRAXIS exam and become a licensed SLP as soon as possible!
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
If there’s any wisdom I can give to students is to not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s okay to step out of your bubble once in a while because it can help you grow as a person and you challenge yourself once in a while. Remember to take care of yourself because college is hard and it’s okay to ask for help. Everyone is probably feeling the way you do, so don’t feel alone, you got this!
Jordan Pierre
S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
Broadcast and Digital Journalism
Minor in Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
When I first came into Syracuse University as a Summer Start student I did not know exactly what to expect, but I did feel a little nervous being that the campus was big. I did not know exactly how I was going to make this place my home away from home and how long I would have to wait to find lifelong friends.
Prior to going to college, I would often hear people saying that in college you meet your lifelong friends and if you’re lucky enough your significant other. With hearing this I was filled with anticipation but little did I know, the relationships that people speak of is something you don’t seek but that finds you. As a first year student my mindset was to find a way to become the face of the school and prove all of the educators that told me I would only be a statistic if I attend Syracuse University wrong. I made it my goal since the first day I got on campus to leave a mark on this institution and utilize all the resources the school offered me to make that happen. I know how it feels to be in an school that is underfunded, praying that one day my chance to be at an institution that was fully funded. I know how it feels to have limited access to the resources of my white counterparts, so now that I am at Syracuse University with access to an immense amount of resources and opportunities, I made a promise to myself and that is to prove to society that we people of color are just as intelligent if not more intellectual than our white counterparts.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
One of my biggest lessons that I learned while at Syracuse University is best encapsulated by a message told to me by a mentor of mine. He told me to find time to ask myself the question: what is it that you want to achieve that you cannot do alone? Because those aspirations are going to force you to engage with a community.
“If you aspire to achieve things that you can do alone you are not growing you are only exercising your ego. If you aspire to only achieve the things you can do alone you need to dream bigger.” -Lemuel Island
The biggest lesson that I have learned from being at Syracuse University is the importance of networking, constructing a team and most importantly, building a blueprint for those coming after you. It is not enough for you alone to be great, true success is not measured by your individual accomplishments but the accomplishments you help others to achieve along the way. College is only a microcosm of life.
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
I wish I would have known that “If you live by the applause of others you will also die by their criticism.” I feel that I have done several things in my life not for an applause but expecting one or at least some form of acknowledgement. What I have come to realize is that you must not assess your success based on the applause of others, because often you will not receive the flowers you deserve while you can still smell them. I found myself questioning my worth and doubting whether I should do something because of the lack of applause I have received from my past successes and it has put me in a state of dissatisfaction. I have come to notice that I must do what it is that brings me joy and continue to excel whether I receive an applause or not, for there have been people on this earth whose contributions have led to the world we live in today who never received applause. The true reward is not in the recognition but in the impact your actions have on the lives of others.
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
My fondest memory of my collegiate experience I would say is being an Orientation Leader. That is by far one of the most diverse spaces I’ve been in and to see students dedicate two strenuous weeks of volunteering from 6 am to midnight, 14 consecutive days because we wanted to assist the next generation of incoming freshmen and transfer students was amazing. Many of the leaders I worked alongside have become some of my best friends who I can see myself staying in contact with years after we graduate. It is through being an Orientation Leader that I learned the beauty of having a diverse cohort of friends and the benefit to having a team of individuals you can lean on when you are in a time of need. Orientation Leaders was more than just a collegiate program but a family. It is my memories as an Orientation leader that will live forever.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
The Office of Supportive Services has served as my second home. It is at the The Office of Supportive Services that I felt I could be vulnerable and remove the mask I often have to wear as a Black man at a predominately white institution. It is at the Office of Supportive Services that we have held conversations we, students of color, often don’t have the space on campus to speak about but are essential to our personal growth.
What’s next after commencement?
I look to pursue a master’s degree at Syracuse University in Television, Radio and Film. Then enroll in either Howard or Harvard to get my Juris Doctor in Criminal Law. My future aspiration is to have my own talk show and television network that I will use for social commentary and to invite guests to tell their stories. Then, I want to become the President of the United States.
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
People are going to try to convince you that it is a privilege to be an undergraduate at Syracuse University, but it is a privilege for this institution to have you, for no institution would exist without its students. So understand your worth, your leverage and your ability to evoke change in this institution and the world at large.
Hamelin Camilo
Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs
Political Science
Minor in Public Communications
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
Coming into college as an HEOP student, I thought college was going to be a time of growth, perseverance, and a whole lot of opportunities. I expected college to bring me my life-long friends, the people who I would invite to my wedding, and potentially meet my bridesmaids. I expected my class of Summer Start to remain close, and to be another support system throughout our college experience.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
Where do I even begin… Syracuse has taught me a series of life lessons, some which came through a lot of tough battles and others that came naturally. For starters, the idea that college is supposed to be the “best” years of your life is not always necessarily true. College is a rollercoaster ride filled with ups and downs, but on this ride, you learn after every up and down moment. The little gestures are so important. Whether it be having your camera on in a Zoom meeting to sending a thank you email, these gestures make you stand out! Friends will come and go, but those who are true friends will never give you a reason to question them. You are worthy, no matter what anyone tells you! Knowing that you’re the first one on this journey does not mean that you are alone, but rather you are paving the way for the following generations after you. Your voice matters, even when you don’t think your voice is valued it will be, use it! Your professors want to see you succeed, they’re here for you, use them!
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
I wish I knew that this experience would challenge me to the deepest parts of my core. I wish I knew to live in the moment, we get so caught up in thinking about our next steps or future career that we miss the key moments in the present. I wish I knew to cherish every moment, even the bad ones because things don’t always happen TO us but rather FOR us.
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
My fondest memory of Syracuse is Summer Start, and the way we would roam the empty campus at 5 AM and watch the sunrise from the VPA hill. Or the monthly get together for pizza and wings at the old HEOP office on University Ave.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
OSS has provided me with so much throughout my time at SU. They have given me a family away from home, a safe environment, my emotional support system, the people who push me to be better than myself, and to challenge the world around me. They have granted me access to financial and academic resources that have allowed me to walk into powerful spaces. Furthermore, these resources have provided me with life changing experiences, like studying abroad more than once!
What’s next after commencement?
Although it is not set in stone, I aspire to work for a legal firm as a paralegal for a few years, and eventually attend law school to become an attorney.
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
Trust the process. Rely on the people who are here for you. Reach out to alumni who are in a field of interest for you. Believe in yourself! Don’t let your negativity and insecurity block your blessings, what’s the worst that can happen?
Montez Wiggins
Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs
Political Science
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering
Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect when coming to SU. I entered right before COVID hit, so I wasn’t even able to visit before deciding to come here. I had never been to the state of New York, and I was a first-generation college student. Literally, I had no idea of what to expect other than to be out of my comfort zone.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
One of the best lessons that I have learned from my time at SU is that you must trust your ability to make your own decisions for your life’s journey. There are going to be moments when your parents, friends, or advisors are going to be at odds with some of the decisions that you are making for a ton of different reasons. However, if you’ve thought through things and you know exactly what path you want to go down, then don’t let anyone dissuade you from taking that path.
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
I wish I would’ve known that there would be a lot of moments where I felt exhausted, had doubts, and felt isolated; and I wish I would’ve known that all of that was normal. The tv shows about college tend to leave those things out for some reason. The sooner you find your coping mechanisms for when these things occur, the better off you will be!
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
There are a few moments that stand out and they all come from my time studying abroad. It’s something about walking through the streets of a foreign country and living abroad with your college friends that just makes you feel like you’ve experienced all of what life has to offer. So, if you haven’t already, then you should definitely consider studying abroad for a semester.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
The Office of Supportive Services has supported me in a number of ways during my time at SU. Whether it be encouraging me to do something bold or just checking in throughout the semester, the Office of Supportive Services really made me feel as if I had a dependable support system nearby even though my home was on the other side of the country.
What’s next after commencement?
After commencement, I expect to be jumping right back into more schooling. When I began at SU, I knew that I wanted to go directly to law school after undergrad. So, I spent much of my time here positioning myself to have that opportunity available. Hopefully, I will be starting the fall off as a 1L.
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
Take advantage of the opportunities that interest you as they present themselves because you will almost certainly miss out on them by waiting for the perfect time!
Jada Rudolph
College of Visual & Performing Arts
Communication and Rhetorical Studies
Minors in Sociology and Public Communications
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
When I first came to SU as a first-year student, I had no idea what to expect over my next four years. I knew no matter what happened I always wanted to try my best to ensure I was becoming the best version of myself and putting my future first. I expected SU to be a very social school, with great connections and outlets.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
During my time in Syracuse, some of the best lessons I have learned are that it is more than okay to depend on others and ask for help, often necessary. I also learned that if you are not staying true to yourself and making your journey a priority, no one else will be able to fully help you, and further see you for who you are. I learned that college is only a small part of one’s journey in life, and despite the challenges there will always be time and room to improve, grow, and learn. College is just a steppingstone for what is to come next, it is not the end of your journey, just the very beginning.
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
I wish I had known how to speak up and ask for more help from advisors and professors. I also wish I had a better understanding of what I wanted to do with my career, so I was able to explore those classes earlier. However, throughout my college journey I learned how to accept the unknown, leading to my understanding about what it is I want to do and where I see myself.
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
Summer start was one of my best memories at SU. Being surrounded by others coming from similar backgrounds, who hold similar perspectives was both comforting and empowering. It was a unique experience and I made sure to not take it for granted. It allowed me to appreciate SU and find my sense of place before starting in the fall. Another memory I enjoyed was studying abroad over the summer in Florence, Italy. It was a new and beautiful experience that allowed me to further understand myself and the future I see for myself. From the culture, food, experience, and photography class I was able to experience, I was able to have a meaningful and unique experience.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
At SU, the Office of Supportive Services has supported me immensely. From amazing counselors to financial support, to career development. Specifically shouting out my HEOP counselor, Amy Friers, who helped me throughout my years at SU by encouraging me and supporting me through all experiences. HEOP allowed me to have a sense of belonging, and most importantly a better understanding of myself. Not to mention the countless opportunities I have been provided by OSS. From being an HEOP ambassador, to working as an OSS tutor, they allowed me the chance to give back and support other students as well, something I have always been passionate about.
What’s next after commencement?
After commencement, I hope to pursue a career in PR and Marketing, with a specific focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I am also a writer and hope to continue my passion for creative writing both in addition to and outside of my career.
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
Always stay true to yourself. It does not matter if you have tens of people following you, or you stand alone, never give up on yourself and the life you see yourself having. It is important to always be your number one supporter. Enjoy this journey and the many experiences to come. Also remember, if your environment is not working out for you, you have the power to adapt to it. College can be overwhelming, but if you think better things can happen, you have the potential to make them happen!
Raquell Carpenter
School of Education & The College of Arts & Sciences
Mathematics Education & Mathematics
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
I loved my Summer Start experience! It was super fun and I met new people. The workload wasn’t too hectic yet and I was getting acclimated with campus. I made a lot of genuine relationships with students and staff., which helped me throughout my 4 years. I knew after Summer Start that SU was going to meet Raquell Carpenter at her fullest potential.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
I learned that balance is key. Having a schedule is very useful! It may sound small, but this will help if you’re as involved as me. It’s important that time management is at the forefront. I also learned that the opportunities are out there, we just have to do research and go after what we want!
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
I wish I knew how much college had to offer and how easy it is to stay busy on campus. I would have definitely worked on my time management sooner, but I did develop good time management skills over the years.
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
My fondest memory of my college experience was Summer Start. Still until this day, most of my friends and I agree that Summer Start was the best few weeks of our lives and where the college journey began.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for HEOP and SSS. My advisor stuck by my side from the very beginning! He told me about multiple opportunities and always checked in. I felt like I had my family away from home! From the faculty to the students I met in Summer Start, I knew I had support, whether it was a listening ear, guidance or a sit down to hear about new opportunities on campus. I love SSS! I am an SSS Ambassador and I work at the desk during the semester. I have no complaints about the support I’ve received and still continue to receive from the Office of Supportive Services.
What’s next after commencement?
I will be attending Syracuse University for a 15 month Graduate Program pursuing a MS in Education.
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
Enjoy campus to the fullest and occupy all spaces. This campus has a lot to offer, but it’s for us as students to go out and get it. It may seem taxing, but opportunities wait for no one. Be a go-getter! Go out and get it!
Haben Legesse
The College of Engineering & Computer Science
Civil Engineering
When you first came to Syracuse University as a first year student entering Summer Start, what expectations did you have about what the next four years would be like?
As a first-year student entering Syracuse University through the Summer Start program, I initially had various expectations about what the next four years would be like. Coming from a background where I am the first person in my family to attend a four-year university, I felt scared and nervous upon arriving at Syracuse University. I did not have the advantage of family members who could share their experiences of college life with me, so my primary expectation was that college would be primarily focused on academics. However, as I progressed through my college journey, I learned that college life offers more than just academics.
One of the key things I learned during my college experience is the importance of independence. College life teaches you how to manage your time, take responsibility for your actions and become more self-sufficient. In addition to this, I also found myself involved in extracurricular programs such as Our Time Has Come (OTHC), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Engineering and Computer Science Accelerator, Science Technology Engineering Program, and Engineering & Computer Science Peer Leader, which helped me develop leadership and team-building skills.
Before coming to college, I also had the expectation that everyone was competing against each other in academics, and I would have to navigate the four-year journey on my own. However, my first semester at Syracuse University was a pleasant surprise. I found that my fellow civil engineering students were very supportive, and we worked together to figure out assignments and help each other succeed.
Overall, my initial expectations of college were primarily focused on academics. However, I discovered that college life is more than just academics. It is a transformative experience that teaches you to be more independent, develop leadership and team-building skills, and build lifelong relationships with peers. Through involvement in extracurricular activities and the support of my peers, I developed a sense of community during my four years at Syracuse University.
What have been some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned during your time at Syracuse?
During my time at Syracuse University, I have learned several valuable lessons that have helped shape my personal and academic growth. However, one of the greatest lessons I learned was to never cut myself short on opportunities due to a lack of confidence or fear of stepping out of my comfort zone.
For instance, when I was applying to colleges in high school, I limited myself to just a few options, which were universities located in Syracuse. However, after attending Syracuse University, I realized that limiting myself in this way prevented me from exploring new opportunities and experiences that could have been beneficial to my personal and academic growth.
Syracuse University encourages its students to take risks and pursue opportunities, even if they seemed daunting or out of reach. This mindset has since inspired me to take chances and apply for top structural engineering master’s programs throughout the country, regardless of whether I thought I was qualified or not. As a result, I have received several offers and was able to choose the program that was the best fit for me. The lesson I learned at Syracuse University about not cutting myself short on opportunities has been invaluable, and it has encouraged me to take risks and pursue my goals with confidence and determination.
What do you wish you would have known before beginning your college experience?
Before embarking on my college experience, there are several aspects that I wish I had been aware of. Firstly, I now understand that college life is vastly different from high school, and as such, effective time management is essential. With numerous distractions and a potentially overwhelming workload, creating and adhering to a well-structured schedule is essential. Additionally, I realized that if I ever encountered any struggles in a particular course, it was essential to reach out to my professor or tutor immediately, rather than waiting until it was too late. In my freshman year, I had waited too long before reaching out to my professors, and this negatively impacted my performance. Hence, I learned from this mistake and made sure to seek help as soon as I encountered any difficulties. Moreover, I have come to realize the importance of prioritizing my mental health during my college journey. College life can be stressful, and neglecting your mental health can have dire consequences. To this end, I advocate for making time for exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking support when necessary. Personally, I had never encountered any significant mental health issues in high school, but college can present unique stressors that require attention.
What is your fondest memory of your college experience?
One of the most cherished memories from my college experience is undoubtedly the Summer Start program, which provided me with a wealth of valuable experiences. I often find myself reflecting on the enjoyable and meaningful moments that I experienced during this summer of 2019. The significance of this moment has remained with me, and it is a memory that I will always treasure.
How has the Office of Supportive Services (HEOP and SSS) supported you during your time at SU?
Since my arrival at Syracuse University in the summer of 2019, the Office of Supportive Services has provided me with invaluable assistance. Coming from a low incoming refugee family, I was always worried about how I was going to pay for school, however, HEOP program took that burden away from me. This financial assistance has enabled me to concentrate on my academic pursuits without concern for the financial burden of tuition and other associated expenses. I also want say HEOP is not solely a source of financial aid, but rather a program that recognizes and encourages the academic potential of students, and the positive societal impact that may result from their educational pursuits. I am immensely appreciative of the support I received from HEOP’s writing and mathematics consultants, whose guidance enhanced my proficiency in these subjects, as well as my advisor, Alexis. Her guidance and support extended beyond the academic realm and also encompassed personal matters. In situations where she was unable to offer direct assistance, she promptly connected me with appropriate resources.
What’s next after commencement?
Upon completion of the commencement ceremony, I have set my sights on continuing my academic pursuits by enrolling in a master’s program in Structural Engineering. It is with great satisfaction that I convey my success in obtaining admission to all seven institutions I applied to, and I have since deliberated on my options and narrowed down my preferences to three distinguished universities: Cornell University, Columbia University and University of Southern California. The final decision regarding the institution where I will be attending in forthcoming.
Any words of wisdom for the students following in your footsteps?
To the students who will be following in my footsteps, I offer the following words of wisdom. It is essential that you maintain a positive attitude and cultivate a growth mindset as you start your academic journey, as this will enable you to make the most of the opportunities that come your way. In addition, it is wise to be receptive to constructive feedback from others, as it can serve as a guidance for personal and academic growth. Engaging in extracurricular activities is also highly recommended, as this allows for the exploration of diverse interests and the development of new skills. Furthermore, it is advisable to cultivate strong relationships with your teachers, mentors, and peers, as these individuals can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout your academic career. Lastly, do not forget to enjoy and cherish every moment of your college experience, as it will undoubtedly be filled with memories that will last a lifetime.