Union College ‘14
Electrical Engineer
Hobbies: Reading, Rafting, and Painting
How are you connected to CV?
I went through the high school program (CAP) and then I went through the college program (CSP). Now, I’m engaged in alumni events and support with fundraisers. I come to different events whenever I can.
What was an obstacle that you had to overcome during the college application process?
Fear of rejection and taking it way too personally. It’s a serious step, but it’s not that personal. The world is not ending just because you were or may be rejected.
How has CV helped you?
Through support. Having a CV advisor who was there if I had questions was really helpful. I could talk to my advisor about whatever. Also, having the opportunity to see what was out there in terms of colleges, and higher ed in general, de-mystified the experience and alleviated my fear.
What was your most memorable moment here?
Getting my acceptance letter from Union. I loved that day. I would say that was my most memorable moment.
What was your college experience like and how has CV helped you during that time?
It was transformative for me in a lot of ways and the care packages from CV were awesome! The check ins I received from my advisor were helpful. CV went beyond “oh, you graduated CV! See you later, bye!”
Were you ever homesick and how did you cope?
I was never homesick. I guess I’m the type of person who sees home as where I am mentally. So, once I acknowledge that I’m not losing my “real home,” then I understand that this is part of a new journey. I have to go through this and know that I can always go to my “real home” at other times.
What is one thing you are most appreciative of in regards to CV?
The sense of community and the sincerity. It’s a caring space; you can walk in here and know people care. Even now as someone who had gone through the program, graduated college (now two years after graduating college), I still feel as if I can come here and talk to people. It’s not just “we’re nice.” It’s “we’re nice, we’re supportive and we’ll help you if you need the help.” That’s what I appreciate most about CV.
What would you say to donors who have consistently given to CV since you first started?
Thank you a million times over. Thank you, thank you, thank you—thank you in every language! Your donations impact so many people’s lives in such significant ways; it might just seem as if it’s ten bucks, but to someone else it’s a bachelor’s degree that they never could have received or that they could have struggled way more to get. It’s a great opportunity for someone.
Big thanks to Pauline, and to all of our CV alums who continue to show their love and support!
