My first semester at Colgate University has been challenging but academically and socially rewarding. I have made friends and memories that will last a lifetime, and it is easy to say that the past four months have been some of the best of my life. At first, adjusting to the workload and new environment was difficult, but after the first few weeks, it was easy to balance a successful academic and social life. The community at Colgate creates a contagious, hardworking environment and a unique bond between the student body.

I have taken the opportunity to expand my ideas and activities through clubs and events hosted by Colgate. Club hockey at Colgate has been a great athletic and social experience. It has introduced me to new people and allowed me to continue playing hockey at a competitive level. Guest speakers and alumni networks have also guided some of my current focus, connecting me with groups and organizations that include me in projects such as protecting the endangered Right Whale through policy and political efforts.

So far, I have found the liberal arts experience rewarding with exposure to diverse classes. It has allowed me to take courses that would typically be outside my comfort zone of natural sciences. Colgate University has also introduced me to new ideas through subject studies such as modernity, politics, philosophy, and other sciences. I plan to declare as an environmental studies major but will continue to explore new courses and disciplines before making my final decision. I am so grateful for the opportunity that MVYouth has given me, for supporting me through my college experience, and for the people that make this program possible.