I can almost remember the summer before my freshman year in college like it was yesterday: frequent runs to go dorm shopping and storage bins covering the dining room floor. After a twelve-hour drive, I arrived at WPI. Once my family helped me unpack my belongings in my dorm, they gave me hugs and got on the road. As I watched them get in the car and drive in the opposite direction, I felt a mix of emotions. I was excited, but a large part of me wanted to return to Detroit with them. I remember asking myself what everything would be like. Would I make friends? Would I get good grades? For the first few months, this uncertainty and anxiety made it difficult for me to focus, and I am sure you are no strangers to uncertainty and anxiety.
With everything going on in the world, specifically the United States, it seems easy to lose hope and give into lethargy. However, I want to encourage you to stay focused on your aspirations and congratulate you on your successes. Use this time to strengthen your assets and remember that education is a gift to be cherished. Although there is a lot of uncertainty, especially in educational plans, you can be certain that you have worked hard to get to where you are now.
Whether you will be engaging in classes online or in person, I hope that your college experience is wonderful.