Since last writing an update for MVYouth, I’ve had a great second-semester last spring, a very productive summer working back on the island, and then my best semester yet this fall. During the spring, I took an intro math course and two courses for my planned major, political science. This semester I continued with a math-political science split, taking two courses in each. Later this year, I will formally declare a major and have decided on political science and applied math after discovering that I can and enjoy doing both. I’ve been fortunate to have experienced great professors who have encouraged me to continue in both fields. At every step so far, both professors and students have motivated me to be a better learner and student. The community I am now part of is incredibly supportive and driven to succeed - traits I am grateful for. Outside of academics, I have joined Brown’s club swim team to get back into this sport and stay physically active. So far it's been a great experience and I have been able to compete against other college clubs in the region. The team has been welcoming and highly motivated. With practices five days a week, swimming has kept me busy and helped me stay focused academically as it forces me to manage my time more efficiently. On top of all this, being in Providence continues to be enjoyable, I’ve explored more of what it has to offer, and social life on campus is vibrant with plenty of things to do year-round. This fall has set me on a path I am excited about. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities MVYouth has provided me with and hope to one day give back and have a similar impact as this organization.

My first semester at Brown exceeded all of my expectations. I have found my time there to be incredibly enjoyable so far. My college workload was a serious step up from that of MVRHS. Courses in international relations, economics, business, and a seminar in philosophy challenged me to think and work in new ways. I found myself doing much more reading and writing than I ever had before and was forced to hone these skills. The classes I selected for my first semester kept me on track to major in political science. I am glad I do not have to declare a major until later in my college career and hope to continue exploring different courses and fields. The school work has sometimes been difficult to get through, but it is made much easier by the supportive and motivated community of students that surround me. Everyone I have met has been incredibly kind and academically driven. Brown has so far felt pretty small, making the transition from the Vineyard to college much easier. It has been easy to find people I enjoy being around and communities that I can be a part of. Providence is also perfect for me in where I want to be at school. Brown is separated from the city with its distinct campus, but with downtown just a ten minute walk away. The city is awesome and I have enjoyed exploring areas like Federal Hill and Fox Point. Providence is close enough to home that I have been able to come back on a long weekend when I’ve wanted to. I cannot wait to continue my education next semester and to continue exploring everything my school has to offer. I am incredibly grateful for the continued support of MVYouth in helping me advance my education and I am excited for the future and making the most of this opportunity. 