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Philosophy and Cinema Studies and Moving Image Arts

I think graduating from ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ is a reminder of all the things that my family and I had to go through to be able to get here. When I was a kid, my family and I didn't have many options, but graduating from ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ opens up options I never imagined I would ever have.

Integrative Physiology

Each moment in life is fleeting, so the most beautiful thing I can do is be fully present in each day and moment. At ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ, I found my dearest mentors and best friends during the classes and experiences I had most feared and attempted to avoid. I will always carry with me the knowledge that there is a reason I am where I am, and to have faith that opportunities and connections will present themselves so long as I keep my eyes open to see them.

Integrative Physiology

The advice I would give to other students is to not compare yourself to others. ... You are enough. You belong at ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ. If you put in the work and believe in yourself you will succeed!!

BFA Theatre

I think the most important thing I've learned from ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ that I will carry with me is to be true and authentic to who I am, and to always stand up for what is right, especially against the people we are most scared to speak out against. My career and my "connections" are never more important than the fight for equity in the arts.

Political Science

Though this is cliche, my time here has taught me to believe in myself. Whatever my next step is, this will allow me to reach for my goals and take shots that may make me nervous.

Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Minor in Japanese

Your time as an undergraduate student is one of transition and will be filled with many moments of uncertainty. From what major to select and what classes to take, to deciding on what graduate program to apply to, there will undoubtedly be many questions you will have that are going to be difficult to answer yourself. That's why one of the best pieces of advice I can offer you is to find your own mentor. This person will be someone who has already walked your path and can aid you in forging your own. This person will be a pillar of support and knowledge that can provide you a sense of confidence, recognition and encouragement. This person will be someone who can be a bridge connecting you to your dream job. As someone who has experienced many of these benefits from having a mentor I can tell you the advice and support that one can offer you is truly worth its weight in gold.

International Affairs, Arabic minor

Based on what I know now, my best piece of advice for other students is to explore the topics and subjects that spark your interest or your curiosity, and don't be afraid to really delve in. College is your time to learn, explore, play, and enjoy accumulating knowledge that in a way you will never have the opportunity to do again. Live in the moment, reflect on it, and enjoy it.

Spanish, Finance

Graduating from college represents the hard work, sacrifices and accomplishments of my family. I could not have done this without them and the eternal love and support I have. This is as much theirs as it is mine.

Dance

"Everyone's time comes differently. Some students will be able to complete within the traditional four years, but for others, it may take longer and that within itself is also valid. Some flowers only bloom on the night of a full moon. Only those who are patient enough to wait for it will see its true potential."

Women & Gender Studies

If I could go back in time and tell my former self anything it would be this: there are going to be so many moments when you think you cannot do it, but you can (it will happen in the blink of an eye). And when you do, the feeling will be indescribable (no one can take that away from you).

Integrative Physiology

Explore everything the school has to offer early in your freshman year, even if you don’t know what you want your major to be. ... Whether it’s a minor, club, or not even related to school, just do something you’re passionate about and don’t make the same mistake I did of waiting too long.

BFA Theatre, Lighting Design and Technology, BA Psychology

Wherever this journey may take me, my college experience has made me realize that I can do and be whoever I want to be. I will always cherish the fact that college gave me privilege, a family, and a purpose.

International affairs, Chinese

Failure is inevitable and it also one of the greatest blessings in life. Freshman year, I failed the first two midterms I ever took. ... However, if it were not for failing those midterms, I never would have been given the chance to learn what it meant to fully commit myself to my personal growth and my education. There will be so many instances when you will make less than ideal choices (hanging out with your friends before a final, not prioritizing school work, etc). As long as you make better choices moving forward and learn from your failures, success will follow.

Computer Science with a minor in Chinese

The single tip I wish I had known as a younger undergraduate student was to seek out great mentors. During high school, there are more restrictions on what you can do as an individual. However, in college, different majors and different people lead to a variety of different paths and freedoms, and to excel on those paths, I believe mentors are often necessary. ... There are so many brilliant, talented mentors out there; I encourage you to find them!

BFA Theatre (Stage Management)

Always advocate for yourself first! I've always been someone who will say yes to everything, but over the course of my college career I learned that its okay to say no for the sake of your mental health. Its okay to take mental health days and its okay to reach out and ask for help when you need it!