My first interacti y February, 2020. Rather than the usual question about financial certifications or other relatively mundane issues, it was an urgent reachout for visa documentation relating to long lines at the embassies spurred by the epidemic in their native country of China. This was the first time the word “epidemic” had ever appeared in a communication between an international student and me.
The first of so, so many times in the coming weeks and months.
As you all wondered if and when you would be able to apply for a visa and travel to the US to begin your college careers, we at Vassar conferred and planned and wondered how this would all play out. We were very optimistic early on, telling everyone to go home after March Break and to plan to return in several weeks.
Of course, that didn’t happen.
And for so many of you, obtaining a visa wasn’t going to be possible that spring. But you still came to Vassar, even if it were virtually for a few months or even an entire year. You attended the one and only virtual international orientation we have ever produced, followed by a virtual regular orientation. I think we checked in about 11 first year internationals in person that fall; everyone else either arrived later that fall or in the spring, or simply stayed home and first saw Vassar at the beginning of your sophomore year. Notably, that check-in day was the first time Yousra and I had been together in person since the end of March!
Remember hybrid? How tough was it to be one of a handful of students Zooming into a classroom or a tent (Remember the tents??). It took so much more energy to be present, and acknowledged as such by those in person. And time zones. I remember one student telling me their Vassar day ran from 10:30pm to 6:30am their time. And they had to help with cooking and chores on top of everything else.
Amazing what you did in order to be a student that crazy first year. In order to persevere.
Remember the dashboard? Yep. I don’t know about you, but we checked that COVID dashboard daily. COVID shut down colleges and universities for large periods across the US, but Vassar stayed open throughout. It felt like Armageddon was chasing us, yet we stayed one step ahead of it. Masks. Vaccines. Testing, testing, and more testing. Yikes! COVID was for sure not all that was wrong with the world. That first year featured in the US the infamous Capital Riots in January 2021. But there were so many, in so many places. Hong Kong. Algeria. Sudan. Lebanon. Iran. And climate change continued to express itself in unpredictable and extreme ways.
The US pulled out of Afghanistan. Russia invaded Ukraine. And now the Israel assault on Palestine. On and on it goes. So much conflict. So much strife.
No international class in memory faced so much uncertainty at the start as you did.
You all successfully surfed the COVID waves. You have persisted and prevailed in the wake of such adversity, and a complex and challenging world along the way. Such demons you have all faced. And conquered!!
As you each start the journey of the rest of your lives, know that what you have accomplished is nothing short of spectacular.
YOU are nothing short of spectacular.
Congratulations on your amazing achievements, and know that whenever you return our international family – and our home – will always be yours.
Love,
AndrewDear Class of ‘ 24,
As you stand poised at the brink of your next great adventures, I am overwhelmed with pride and a touch of nostalgia. Some of you embarked on this journey at Vassar four years ago, while others joined us three years ago, each bringing your own unique backgrounds and stories to our community.
From those initial days navigating t corridors of campus or connecting th miles away you've grown into scholars and citizens of the world. Your journey has been shaped by extraordinary times, teaching us all resilience and adaptability. I am so blessed to have gotten to know many of you, having had the chance to talk and share experiences.
Each conversation and interaction has been a reminder of the incredible diversity and potential within this group. Your stories and dreams have not only enriched my days but have also left a lasting imprint on my heart. As you move forward, I urge you to carry with you the rich tapestry of your international heritage. Your diverse perspectives and cultural insights are treasures that will enrich every environment you enter. Embrace your cultures, celebrate your identity, and draw strength from where you ’ ve come from it’s what makes each of you unique.
In your future endeavors, remember the spirited debates infused with perspectives from across the globe and the late-night study sessions where you shared not just notes, but stories from your various homelands. Stay in touch. Not just with those who shared your journey, but also with the spirit of discovery that brought you together. The world needs your curiosity, your empathy, and your bold dreams. Whether you end up influencing policy, innovating technology, or inspiring communities, continue to bridge cultures and forge connections. I am eager to see the paths you will carve out, not just for yourselves but for the global community we all belong to. The bonds you've formed here are just the
beginning. Keep those alive and let them guide you as you build a compassionate and connected world. Stay bold, stay connected, and above all, stay true to the incredible person each of you has become.
With all my admiration and a heartfelt salute to your diverse journeys, Yousra
S E N I O R S E N I O R
P R O F I L E S P R O F I L E S
Takealookatthebeautiful peopleyouhavemetover theyears!
Major: Economics
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Exploratory, transformative, camaraderie
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
Studying abroad
What is a quote that you live by?
If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it ~ Muhammad Ali
How have you changed since first year?
I believe I have grown as a person and an intellectual. I've come to appreciate the social, environmental, and political aspect of world's problems all the while equipping myself with the technical skills to take action.
Plans after Vassar?
I am working in Finance in New York City as an Emerging Markets Analyst Later, I plan to get my MBA and start my own business
I am most thankful for my friends and for Andrew and Yousra for helping with my visa struggles at short notices!
Major: Computer Science
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Exciting, Educative, Memorable
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
Oooh. Visiting Niagara Falls. It was fun going on a road trip with my friends Going down on the water on a boat ride under the falls and experiencing Niagara Falls up close.
What is a quote that you live by?
One percent chance, ninety-nine percent faith - Neymar Jr
How have you changed since first year?
More athletic. I have a better understanding of the world. I'm more social Made a lot of friends and stuff
Plans after Vassar?
Short term, move to Seattle and work as a Software Engineer in Salesforce Long term, be an astronaut and go into space.
I'm grateful for my friends I'm grateful for Pick-Up Soccer. Without them I'd be a sad man. I'm grateful for my friends (again). I love Vassar. I'm grateful for TA 5, TH 62, and Cushing. I'll miss the thousands of great conversations I've had in the Deece And Sanders Physics"
Biochemistry & STS
Your Vassar experience in 3 words enriching, fun, fulfilling
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
My first founder's day
Plans after Vassar?
Graduate School to pursue a PhD in Pharmacology
How have you changed since first year?
I’ve grown more confident and self-reliant I’ve learned to balance my academic pursuits with personal development and community engagement.
Your Vassar experience in 3 words Innovative, Empowering, Transformative.
What is a quote that you live by?
“Stay hungry, stay foolish.” - Steve Jobs. This quote reminds me to always pursue learning and embrace the unconventional paths.
I’m excited to start my journey as a software developer at Amazon, where I hope to contribute to impactful projects and continue growing professionally Plans after Vassar?
I’m deeply thankful for the mentorship from my professors and the friendships I’ve made. The biggest challenge was adapting to remote learning during the pandemic, but it taught me resilience and the importance of community support. Vassar has been more than an institution; it’s been a nurturing ground for my aspirations and values
Political Science & French
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Seeing the goslings at Sunset lake for the first time freshman year
What is a quote that you live by?
Put it in perspective
Plans after Vassar?
Become a college admissions officer!
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
What is a quote that you live by?
I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.
How have you changed since first year?
I embrace every aspect of myself more.
Transforming, memorable, loved Plans after Vassar?
Going to start a PhD program in Biomedical Genetics and Genomics at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Every moment at Vassar is memorable.
My college life was approaching an end before I realized it Two years ago, I was putting the international senior yearbook together While still thinking graduation is far away, I am responding to these questions. I am grateful for everyone and everything I have encountered at Vassar because they made me who I am. I am thankful for my family because I could not make it without their support. Although it is sad to say goodbye to the beautiful people at Vassar, hope lies in the future, and more exciting things are yet to come As I step into the next chapter of life, I will carry with me the lessons, memories, and friendships gained at Vassar, fighting through all challenges and enjoying every success.
London, England and
Taipei, Taiwan
Philosophy Major, Hispanic Studies
Correlate
Although there were many memorable moments at Vassar, if I had to pick it would be the week leading up to the mock wedding organized by SASA. My friends and I were choreographing dances, organizing an after-party, and preparing for the wedding On the day, we danced at the event together, ate good food, and ended the night with a large party with everyone we knew. After the party, my housemates and I made food and spent the late night just talking about everything that happened.
Vassar is home. My friends, my professors, mentors, classmates, roomates, and everyone in between - I'm grateful to everyone for making Vassar a home.
ZHIYUE DING N/G
How have you changed since first year?
"Umm... [long pause] I'm less shy. I feel like I'm less serious about myself, or my future. I just do whatever I want and I'll be fine I don't have to be the best at everything I feel more steady, more sure of myself Some of my values that were very vague and arbitrary in freshman year, I think became clearer... I also don't hold onto them as strongly as I did. As stubbornly. Anyway, that's enough."
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
"Taking photos of stars at the farm."
uote that you live by?
Travel intentionally without a
a research assistant in Columbia Europe. That's the dream, bro. astronaut. Put that in there." Vassar?
Vassar is special because of the ade."
Your Vassar experience in 3 words. Deece Mashed Potatoes
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
When I threw my birthday party with so many new friends that made me feel welcome and loved.
What is a quote that you live by?
"There
are people in your life that help you become the person you end up being, and you can be grateful for them, even if they were never meant to be in your life forever."
~ Diane from BoJack Horseman
Plans after Vassar?
Going back to Germany to finish my Master's
I am so grateful for all the people I have met during my stay here I can't begin to imagine what life will be like without those I love so deeply. In the blink of an eye, I'll be on a plane back to my old life - but what kind of life is that if I have to say goodbye to everyone that made my time at Vassar so worthwhile? But memories are forever, right?
Economics Major, Math Correlate
How have you changed since first year?
Met incredible people Made terrific memories Coming to Vassar has stretched my mind.
Your Vassar experience in 3 words
Diverse, Unforgettable, Electric
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Spring Break Freshman Year
What is a quote that you live by?
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”
Tzu
I plan to work in the consulting industry. Particularly, I will be starting at Compass Lexecon as an Analyst right after my graduation
I am thankful to have come to Vassar and forge relationships that have taught me numerous things and molded me into the person I am today. Particularly bonds that I have formed that I will cherish for a lifetime.
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Adventurous, Profound, Memorable
What is a quote that you live by?
Not a quote, but a song I love to hear when I'm feeling a little lost: bambi by hippo campus
How have you changed since first year?
It's difficult to put into words how I've changed over the course of these four years I've become more confident, my place in the world. I've ectives have been enriched by I've had the good fortune of ds with
Vassar?
program in Biomedical at the University of cine and Dentistry
Describe your Vassar College experience in 3 words. Radiant. Resourceful. Resilient.
Everyday, live a little, laugh a little, love a lot
Well, well, let me tell you, it's been quite a transformational journey! Since my first year, I've blossomed into a bouquet of openness and enthusiasm, ready to embrace the delightful surprises that people and unfamiliar horizons bring into my life. And let me tell you, some of these surprises have been so amazing, but others have left me both dazzled and a tad uncomfortable, like trying to fit into skinny jeans after a hearty meal! But hey, that's all part of the adventure, right? On top of that, I've become more finely attuned to the art of gracefully accepting each day as a gift, a beautiful opportunity to both do and feel better It's like waking up to a fresh batch of sunshine cookies every morning – you just can't help but feel grateful for the sweetness life has to offer!
Reclaiming my adventurous spirit! It's time to set it free and let it soar Alongside my globetrotting adventures, I plan to sprinkle a dash of career scent into the mix As I always say, dreams are free. The possibilities are endless. Let the adventure begin!
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Where do I even begin recounting my unforgettable moments at Vassar? But if I had to highlight one that's still twinkling in my mind, it would be the 'African Culinary Experience: an unveiling of the African Continent through food'
It was more than just a cooking event; it was a celebration of culture, friendship, and the joy of trying something new. As I look back on that day, I can't help but smile at the sheer absurdity of me, the kitchen amateur, pulling off such a feat. It's a memory I'll cherish forever, a reminder that sometimes the most memorable moments are the ones when you step out of your comfort zone and sprinkle a little spice into your life
As you read my reflection on this day, I hope it made you live a little, laugh a little, and love a lot All the best, Vassar lovelies
Media Studies Major, Japanese and Music Composition Correlates
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Exploration, Challege, Growth
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
My first production, Dragoness, as the stage manager in Drama Department
What is a quote that you live by?
Live in the present
How have you changed since first year?
Have a more clear vision of what I want to do in the furture
Plans after Vassar?
Grad school!
I would like to thank all my friends and my parents that are always by my side when I am figuring out my goals and what I want to do in the future.
Mumbai, India
Psychology
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Playing pickup footy with my international friends, and getting to know each other on and off the field- it was meaningful to have such an open and accepting place at Vassar
Morocco
International Studies & French
Your Vassar experience in 3 words
Fun, funky, funded
What is a quote that you live by?
Ciore Taylor said, “Differences simply act as a yarn of curiosity, unraveling until we get to the other side ”
ed the Cornelisen fellowship to study Spanish nos Aires and Seville s after Vassar?
ections
to thank the international community at for being a major source of comfort and to home-sickness. It was an honour to be nt of VISA in my senior year to restore sed connections due to our virtual ion
"I know that I'm more matured I know how to take rejections now, like, I take rejections [more] lightly I feel more comfortable with being by myself, but at the same time, I also love my friends a lot. As in like, I can be more honest with myself and also my friends and not worry about people judging me before sharing or talking about something. I was super nervous my freshman year when I had my first job in CIS - I was worried about not doing well at my job, even talking to people made me nervous too. But now, I know that I'm still learning a lot on the way so I embrace my failures and the challenges instead of resisting them"
Your Vassar experience in 3 words
Opportunities, Growth, Challenge
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
"What is it ? In my TA, on Lunar New Year, we walked around campus to take pictures in our traditional clothes and cooked and ate good food with friends"
"A quote by my dad, or someone else: "To walk one hundred steps, you need to take the first step" This doesn't just apply to me but when I approach other people too Sometimes I expect them to understand things that I understood already, but I learned to be patient"
"I'll attend a meditation retreat at Plum Village in France I have an internship at Amazon as a SWE Intern in Seattle Then, I'll go to Dartmouth for my 5th year in the Fall for a year After that, I hope to become a SWE at a location where my friends are at, IDK [laugh]
"If I can only choose one thing, I'd say that I'm thankful for Vassar for the people I've met and the opportunities I've gotten up until this point I think both of these serve as a huge stepping stone for me to move forward in life In my freshman year I'd never imagine myself at where I am today. I'm glad that I had this chance to be at Vassar when I'm in my early 20s."
Major: Psychology and Education
Your Vassar experience in 3 words. wild, loved, mind-blowing
What is a quote that you live by?
You don't cut your hand off when you hurt a finger, so why give up when you make a mistake?
Manila, Philippines
Beijing, China
It was a great time. I’m glad to have met so many great people, friends who are supportive and Professor who are inspiring.
YINJIAMAMajor: Urban Studies major & Studio Art correlate
Your Vassar experience in 3 words. Engaging, Winter, Fun
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
"Living with friends is really nice Late nights that we spent talking and *getting deep, deep, deep*."
What is a quote that you live by?
"hehe haha"
"First year I'm more comfortable with myself and I've made amazing friends. It's hard to know how I've changed. IDK I'm pretty consistent. In my freshman year, maybe I was more open to making friends. (That's not a good thing?) I'm more comfortable with being alone I've always been though Ah I've been exposed to new things"
Plans after Vassar?
"Move to the city with my friends. And study abroad in Japan And then settle down, open up my own cafe. We'll see, maybe."
"I'm very grateful for the people I've met in my time at Vassar I think knowing people from different backgrounds has opened my understanding of the world And it has made me want to continue meeting cool people and maintaining my current relationships. I learned that it's not about where you are [laugh], but who you're with."
Economics Major
Your Vassar experience in 3 words. Change, Experiment, Adventure
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
Living in Ferry house and eating dinner together every week
What is a quote that you live by?
Shy bairns get nowt
How have you changed since first year?
I'm a lot more considerate, enjoy reading more and i learnt a lot about being independent.
Plans after Vassar?
Get a fun job, get a pet cat, get my driving license
Thankful to the aeo, transitions, alana center, bsu, ferry house, friends, family, the sutton trust
Now, I am trying to be more open to life and what it has to offer, and I am prepared and eager to celebrate yearly events, like Americans or people do at Vassar. I am also more conscious about how and how much I am fueled daily by my family and friends.
Your Vassar experience in 3 words
Challenging but rewarding
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Watching so many country flags being waved in the air during Kaleidoscope. (And my sunrise hike.)
Everything has an end.
Have my own apartment. Enjoy life with my family and friends. Be surrounded by nature and animals. Hopefully, teaching.
Vassar represents for me a chance I fought for but did not realized before I fully enjoyed what it offered I have fulfilled so many childhood dreams here (took horseback riding lessons, had an introduction to ballet, enrolled in an art class and learned so much about color theory, was intellectually stimulated by reading many interest things about language and cognitive science). I also met wonderful people, so different from me and from where I am from.
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Kindness, Interweaving, Delight
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
“The first” everything, first week of international integration, first encounters, first Squash shots, first Clowning and English monologues, first 24/7 desperatelibrary vibe, first -13 degrees Celsius, first laugh, first moment of misunderstanding, first ‘Hey what’s up ’ no answers expected moment, first moment of backup, first tears, first unpredicted delight, first Thanksgiving, first Martin Luther King Day, first Deece-brunch, first ‘unfortunately, we are so European’ language fellows moments first everything !!
‘If not you, then who? If not now, when?’
How have you changed since first year?
First and last year have made everything very intense!
Plans after Vassar?
PhD in French literature or Drama in Paris
I am thankful for the best and worst moments there I am thankful for this feeling of communities that was very missing in Paris. Or at least, not expressed in a inclusive way. I am grateful for all the academic, artistic and athletic options Discovering how perspectives on things could be different here was intense. I am particularly grateful for Andrew and Yousra !
Major: Cognitive science
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Friendships❤ Spontaneity ✨Sleepless��
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
When campus police caught around 40 of us on the literal roof of Rocky. We all escaped ��
What is a quote that you live by?
A person is a person through other personsDesmond tutu
How have you changed since first year?
I’ve become a lot more open to trying things I had never tried before.
I also drink a lot more coffee than I used to (thank you COGS)
Plans after Vassar?
Research assistant/ Grad school
Thankful for my friends, my professors and all the memories I’m leaving with. I’m going to miss how genuinely caring the Vassar community has been And of course, the unlimited Deece swipes.
How have you changed since first year?
"I think I've gotten more sure of myself. I used to have a lot of doubts about my abilities, personalities, etc. But through 4 years of college, I feel like I've proven myself to me. I also learn to be more independent and more open to new connections with different perspectives. In conclusion, I feel like I've spent my time well here."
Your Vassar experience in 3 words "Perfect for me."
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
"Anytime that I cook dinner with my friends in TA, whether it's with my senior friends who have graduated and my senior friends right now. I ofter look back at them and smile :). I'm sure I'll think about those moments often after I graduate."
ve by?
I don't know if I live and love will follow.'"
oyfriend and friends
m grateful for the me in some of my erstand how ation and constant eminds me that I d."
How have you changed since first year?
Grown beyond recognition
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Some of my most memorable moments have been Cushing 216, finding comfort in my friend's ta, celebrating getting a booth during dinner rush, hilarious confusion at the mall during orientation, the silence and avoiding eye contact during OIS intern meetings, and the absolute chaos that is ATW kahoot.
What is a quote that you live by?
"Braving the Mistral to paint orchards" - Vincent Van Gogh
Plans after Vassar?
Research associate at the Yale Stress Center, and a career in global mental health
I am so grateful for the family I found in the OIS and the lifelong friends I have made here Life at Vassar has been full of ups and downs, but I wouldn't have it any other way Coming to Vassar with a blank slate, I can say now with pride, happiness, and gratitude that I now carry with me a family, a second home, and a promising future.
Japanese language fellow
Your Vassar experience in 3 words. Wonderful, Beautiful, Excited
What is a quote that you live by?
温故知新(Bridging old and new)
How have you changed since first year?
I can now rely on others easily
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
Performed at the department event “Culture Day”
Plans after Vassar?
I will work as a junior high school teacher in Japan again
My days at Vassar were very exciting and warm. Great students and dear language fellows helped me so I had really good time I won’t forget them so don’t forget me as a bassoon player and recorder player… I will remember all because I wrote a diary every day;)
Nanjing,China
YIQISHAOMajor: Earth Science and Society; Music Performance (voice)
Describe your Vassar college experience in 3 words.
Life-changing. Fun. Expensive. (LOL!!! but very true)
What is a quote that you live by?
It's okay to be not okay. It's not okay to not be okay with not being okay
How have you changed since your first year?
I have changed in literally a million ways I have become much better at talking to and caring for people I have made many new friends I have a much better fashion sense & personal style I finally have long hair! And new glasses! I switched my professional career goal from geography to music I have discovered much more about my identity (now I use they/them pronouns and have proudly declared my place in the LGBTQ+ community)!!! I have come to really embrace, enjoy, and be super freaking proud of the liberal art doctrine. Pursuing two extremely distinct fields -- earth science and geography, AND music performance -at the same time and taking both to the highest possible academic level is something impossible to achieve at any other institutions. Doing these things while getting to know all my peers who also does so many different things at the same time -- studio art, drama, the hard sciences, and more -- keeps me fed with new perspectives to look at world and life, and constantly puts me in awe I used to doubt if this really works, but IT REALLY DOES Extremely well The most important change is, since I come from a very traditional Chinese family with extremely strict parents, I have never learned the importance of self-care, and I was also unreasonably strict on myself I have been constantly criticizing myself that I am not studying hard enough, I am not learning something well enough, my attitude is not good and appropriate enough, my English is not good enough, I am so bad at socializing and making friends, and more. But under the help of the Vassar community, I have learned to acknowledge the validity of my feelings, and treat myself as a real human being with generous acceptance.
Gap year, travel to Europe, then music conservatory!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What was your most memorable moment at Vassar?
Probably gonna be my SENIOR RECITAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Which will be on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 3:30pm in Skinner Recital Hall!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! All should come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And also winning kaleidoscope THREE TIMES IN A ROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Also hanging with all the amazing people I've met here. They are so amazing and I feel really blessed everyday.
Everyone at OIS Andrew, Lila, Yoursa, and all the interns for making all the colorful events come true every year!!! My major advisor Mary Ann Cunningham, and pre-major advisor Leonard Nevarez. My voice teacher Robert Osborne and artistic coach David Alpher. My host family Prof. Peipei Qiu. All my friends at the music, geography, and urban studies departments. Fried eggs at the Deece Amazing pianos everywhere AEO and the Counseling Center Chefs of Thai Spice and Tokyo Express.
Hong Kong
Double Major in Art
History and Earth Science
Correlate in Religion
China
YUFEI XU
China
How have you changed since first year?
I have clearer goals for life and have developed more hobbies
Your Vassar experience in 3 words. warm, therapeutic, challenging
Plans after Vassar?
Law school hopefully
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
I can't think of one. Probably when spending times with friends.
College life can sometimes be bittersweet. But I'm thankful for overcoming challenges and meeting wonderful people during the past four years.
China
China
Your Vassar experience in 3 words.
Enlightening, joyful, productive
Most memorable moment at Vassar?
Receiving a Comfy (wearable blanket) as care package during the first winter at Vassar.
Nanjing, China
Double Major in Mathematics and Music
China
