Thursday, July 7, 2011

The Beginning of the End

Presentations are over now in macroeconomics. Out of all of them, I was thoroughly impressed with Kathleen's group. They did their project on the economy in China. Kathleen really stood out from the group as the leader. They did a lot of research and they were clear and concise in their presentation as public speakers.

Since tomorrow is our final, I decided to do some studying in the Science Library. My test partner, Ellen Kim, treated me to frozen yogurt as we went over all of our notes. We did not get too deep in our review because Professor Coleman told us not to stress about the test. As the instructor, Professor Coleman is evaluating us for our participation, attendance, and contribution in class. The test we are taking tomorrow is pretty much for self evaluation and to see where we stand in understanding the material. Since I have a partner, I felt obligated to study at least for an hour and a half after lunch. I do not want to let Ellen down if she needs help on a problem. I am grateful that she chose me as a partner and that she has faith in me. Personally, I am a little apprehensive about this final, but I have done the best I could in this course, so I will take it with confidence and with no regrets.

The main event today was the college fair. There were a lot of great New England college representatives there. Some of my favorites were New York University, Ithaca College, and Boston University. When I went to the BU table, I saw a familiar face. Chelsea Moylan, the BU representative that we shared dinner with at L'Espalier, greeted me and it was great to see her. I told her that I totally enjoyed my stay at Brown and that I wanted more information from Boston University. The people waiting in line for her information were impressed that I knew her. Another person that I connected with was at the Brown University booth. I introduced myself to the Northern California admissions officer for Brown. His name is Peter Newcomb. Ms. Larson organized a meet-up with him tomorrow. I was glad that I was able to tell him who I was and where I was from because apparently admissions officers remember that sort of thing. I cannot wait to talk with him more tomorrow.
Today was the last full day for some of the Summer@Brown students. There was a dance at Sayles Hall and it was so much fun. Andrew and I danced on stage when the Bay Area song "Teach Me How to Dougie" started to play. Everyone at the dance cheered for us and danced along. We are representing California with our intellect and style.
My day ended on a very emotional note. The 007 team in the basement floor of Jameson in Keeney quad had our farewell floor meeting. We sat in a circle and went around talking about things that we learned while we were at Brown, whether it was from our classes or from each other. One of the things that we talked about was being ourselves at Brown. When students are at a summer camp, they want nothing more but to fit in and have friends. Sometimes they try too hard and become someone that they are not. We expressed to each other that we appreciated how genuine and real everyone was on our floor. Everyone is so different, weird, and unique, but we get along like we have known each other for three years rather than three weeks. I brought up the importance of being socially active. People cannot wait for others to start a conversation or introduce themselves. Sometimes you have to be the bold one to step up and be strong. That is how you meet people. That is how you make connections. You have to stop waiting and start doing.
We spent hours complimenting and talking to each other about how much we have been inspired and touched by everyone on our floor. One of my floor mates, Lena Kesden, told us that she has done a lot of summer programs in the past, but this was the first one where she was very upset with leaving. Our floor has become so close and so loving that it is going to be hard to say goodbye. I have been blessed to know all of these talented, brilliant, and exciting people that I am proud to call my floor mates and my friends. We cried a lot tonight.

I have learned a lot about macroeconomics and college life here at Brown University. Most of all, I have learned a lot about myself. I learned that I can fit in with, get along with, and work with all different kinds of people from all over the world. I learned that I can make a bland room a beautiful and welcoming home. I learned that dorm food is delicious. I learned that college professors are influential guides, not hovering supervisors. I would definitely stay here if I could to be immersed with college life and wonderful people. It is almost time to go home, but I will be going home a stronger and more confident person because of this experience. Every night, I go to bed feeling extremely fortunate to be here at Brown. Tonight is another one of those nights.

2 comments:

  1. Erin,

    I think that you, of all people, shall miss Brown the most and, I'm betting, that Brown will miss you, too.

    From the very start you've been an outstanding advocate for the ILC. You've made us quite proud, Erin, and have been an outstanding representative for the ILC, for Pinole Valley HS and for our entire community.

    Thanks for the great job you've done for us all.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Also, thank you for representing the ILC and the Bay Area with your dance full of "intellect and style." :)

    I think Brown will miss you, too.

    ReplyDelete

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