“I feel that I am now far more socially conscious due to the introspection that Columbia fosters on themes such as identity, civic responsibility, community engagement and social inclusion. This school has really forced me to become more confident, resilient, assertive and adaptable, and to become a better leader.

“One of the reasons I chose to attend Columbia is the high level of diversity on its campuses. The College gave many of us the opportunity to live and learn with people of different backgrounds and nationalities, an experience that’s vital to understanding the world as it is today and the problems of those who reside within it. My time here has taught me to think of others before myself, and to consider more deeply the world around me and the place I occupy within it.

“The year 2020 has been one of hope for me: It was supposed to mark the culmination of four years of hard work and dedication to my collegiate career. Before this, year after year, I would watch as the lawns were prepared for graduation ceremonies, anticipating the day my turn would come. I never could have imagined that we’d be faced with this situation but I must admit that it has forced us to reprioritize our values and even question some of our beliefs. Although I am disappointed, I’ve had to reconsider what is important. Not being able to cross the stage in my cap and gown does not diminish the quality of experiences I had during my senior year and the years that preceded it. I now cherish those moments of heated class discussions, of being able to meet with professors face-to-face and spending time with friends on campus. It is those moments that make senior year worth it.”