“Columbia was the perfect combination of idealistic introspection and #NewYorkTough. It has taught me to be gentle and sensitive in my heart, and bold and fearless in my actions.”

“I’ve learned that community is what really matters. At the end of the day, it’s the experiences that you shared with others, the lives you touched and the lives that touched you that linger. We’re graduating at such a tough and uncertain time, and it may seem out of place to celebrate, but we’ve all come so far, and I’m so proud of us!”

“When I think about what I most appreciate from my time at the College I’m most grateful for the Core: It has taught me to evaluate both historical and contemporary works and issues through a multitude of perspectives. There is really no greater gift than critical thinking, and I employ it every day, whether in reading a news article or making a seemingly insignificant decision.

“This is LITERALLY one of the most unique classes in the history of the school, if not THE most! I’m grateful for every single person I met and I’m looking forward to keeping in touch.”

“Even though our class lost all the celebratory events — which are supposed to be important milestones — that isn’t what made my time at Columbia so incredible. It was the people and teammates who made me smile and laugh every day, who shared workouts and dinners with me, who stayed up studying late at night with me and who cheered me on during my races, that has made these 3.75 years so special.”