Dear Students,
A few weeks ago, I had the honor of attending the TIP Scholars student banquet where a recent TIP alumna, Michelle Eng, spoke. She had three simple messages for students that I want to pass on to you:
- Step out of your comfort zone – Try new things. Take some chances. You never know where it may lead you.
- Practice gratitude – It's easy to get wrapped up in the stress and anxiety of school, but take a few moments every day to note what you do have.
- It's okay to not know what you want to do – And it's okay to change your mind. College is a wonderful time to explore, and just because you get a degree in one thing doesn't mean you're locked into it for life.
Ms. Eng is a former pre-med student and current Teach for America chemistry teacher, and I found her words especially meaningful. I hope you will take them to heart. You should also realize that exploring doesn't necessarily mean change. It simply means being open to change. I started as a chemistry major and ended up a chemist. But I tried a number of other options along the way that solidified my knowing what I wanted to pursue. I have no doubt that you all will go on to meaningful things in life, so make the most of your time here.
Best,
Dr. Vanden Bout
Joke: How do astronomers see in the dark? They use standard candles.
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