TFS Alumni Discuss University Life in the US

TFS Alumni Discuss University Life in the US

On Thursday, November 26th, American Thanksgiving Day, eight TFS alumni spent the holiday at the Senior School, discussing their US university experiences with the Level III to V students. Despite a lunch of pizza, not turkey, the mood was warm, open and engaged, with a full house of students listening avidly to the comments of their older peers.

Talking about university life were: Alex Fogerty ‘09, Bowdoin College, Arden Rogow-Bales ’06, Yale University, Irina Lut ’08, Boston University, Samantha Corbin ’09, New York University, Karmel Wong ’06, Duke University, Josh Posen ’03, Duke University graduate, Vincent Nguyen ’09, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Brianna Nassif ’09, Boston College.

Arden, a senior at Yale, remarked on not needing to immediately know one’s major. Instead, “you turn up and take whatever classes you want.” He also referenced the significant resources for studying abroad and the outstanding faculty. Karmel, also a senior, talked of the number of professional schools and the service in leadership program at Duke in North Carolina.

Samantha, who attends NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, spoke of the large selection of specialized schools to be found in the US and how Tisch has surpassed her expectations. She also refuted the idea that conservatory programs close doors, citing the well-rounded nature of hers. Josh, who is currently undertaking a post-baccalaureate pre-med program, said that “having a Duke degree puts me head and shoulders ahead of the pack,” in terms of applying for medical school.

Vincent, unlike the other participants, strongly disliked his university, Rensselaer, located in Troy, New York.  His reasons included being stuck “in the middle of nowhere” and the fact that the student ratio is about 7 men to 3 women. Vincent is currently applying elsewhere. Alex, at Bowdoin in Brunswick, Maine, found “it definitely had that community atmosphere I wanted.” She called the small school “friendly and competitive,” and noted the opportunities to effect change that it affords her. For instance, Alex has formed the first competitive ski team in the school’s history.
Irina said that Boston University fits her perfectly. “You don’t feel like you’re lost. And it’s a great city.” She also mentioned the number of clubs and the Alternative Spring break program. Last spring, she went with the program to Arkansas to help build a house for a single mom and her children. Brianna is also at school in Boston, but hers is Boston College. One key reason she decided on the school was that “it is one of the most beautiful campuses.” She also noted that no matter what major or professional school you enter, you must take a fairly strict core curriculum on this tight-knit, community oriented campus.

Finally, time ran out, though the questions did not. As a result, in addition appearing on the panel, our eight alumni generously agreed to answer any questions the students may have via email.