Brown University

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Brown is an amazing place that can be characterized in limitless ways. Yet, this character is forever defined by the students — those who tread through the illustrious gates and infuse the greens, classrooms and dorms with spirit and intellect.
What defines a Brown student? A question often asked, but not easily answered. However, one thing is certain. Everyday I am surrounded by a group of people vastly assorted in their backgrounds and talents, though united in their dedication to learning and enthusiasm for living.

We arrive on campus as first-year students; strangers in an unfamiliar environment. Though quickly, we become instilled with a great sense of community, feeling that we are all going through it together — whether learning how to navigate the Ratty or endure the frenzy of our first midterms.

Our deep sense of intellectual curiosity leads us to challenge each other — inside and outside of the classroom — and at the same time, respect and learn from our differing viewpoints. I have gained so many new perspectives from both fascinating classroom debates, to profound late-night discussions of life aspirations — the best of which began with a light-hearted analysis of the latest “Grey’s Anatomy” episode.

We strive to excel in our studies, though we do not limit our college experience to textbooks. There is always a wide array of activities to choose from, and as a result, I frequently find myself struggling to schedule time not only for a club meeting, a cappella concert and dance party, but also to hear a famous speaker and watch a basketball game.

Brown students push one another to go beyond our prior knowledge, encouraging each other to take a class in an unfamiliar subject, try a new hobby, or travel to a foreign country. At the same time, we revel in traditions that span generations of Brown students — from midnight organ concerts to our unique commencement ceremony.

We bring our identities with us, share them, and connect with a fresh sense of self in an atmosphere of wise freedom; growing, working, studying and having fun together. These students have made my Brown experience so deeply memorable, making it a place to call home long after I walk out of those gates.

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