I want to begin by saying congratulations! Your admission to Rutgers is a fantastic achievement. Just last year I was in your place, both excited and nervous for the future. Looking back, I could not have chosen a better place to call my “home away from home” than the state university of New Jersey. As a current sophomore at Rutgers, I can assure you that making the choice to attend Rutgers is not one that you will regret.
I am an out-of-state student from Thomaston, Connecticut. Thomaston is the epitome of a small town; I graduated with a class of only 60 students! At first, coming to Rutgers seemed intimidating. I did not know a single person from home who would be attending with me, nor did I have any idea how I would find my way among a sea of more than 40,000 undergraduate students from all over the country and world. Considering this, many people asked why I chose Rutgers. I always gave the same answer. I decided that I would embrace this opportunity with all the benefits, opportunities and challenges that came along with it.
Not everyone has the privilege to be able to attend a school like Rutgers that boasts both diversity and inclusivity. Some do not have the privilege to attend college at all. It is important for you to take advantage of everything that Rutgers has to offer. You will meet people who change your life, have the opportunity to learn limitlessly both in and out of the classroom, and harness your potential to do amazing things. Ultimately, you will grow into the person you are meant to be. All of this, however, will not be handed to you. You must take on each and every day with passion and spirit, like a true Scarlet Knight.
I understand your doubts. Yes, Rutgers is big, in every sense of the word. Yes, Rutgers can be confusing. Yes, there are times I miss home. However, at the end of the day, I know that I made the right choice in attending Rutgers, and I know that you will, too. I would not change a single thing about my experience over the past year. Whether you are reading this from across the state, country or globe, I want to personally welcome you to Rutgers — this is “R” house.
Best Wishes,
Megan