As they have grown, changed and worked to earn their degrees, UAlbany's graduating class of 2003 has also seen war, recession and the tragedy of 9/11. With Commencement approaching, five seniors took a few moments to reflect on their experiences at UAlbany and what lies ahead.
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Richard Prou
Hometown: Pomona, NY
Major: Business Administration |
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Looking back�
I really did not know what to expect as far as what the community and the environment would be like here. I chose the University at Albany because the Business School here was rated as one of the highest values in the SUNY system. After my sophomore year, this place started to feel like home.
I grew here at the University by being involved in several campus activities. In my four years, I have worked in the library, for ResLife, for Project Excel Peer Mentoring, and for the University Tutorial office, and I have volunteered to help several Student Association groups in various campus activities. Having the opportunity to work with so many diverse groups of people in different activities has given me experiences and skills that are hard to attain elsewhere.
Special people and moments�
 I was fortunate enough to have met two very dedicated advisors here who shaped my life while at the University. They are Chris Fernando and Patrick Romain. I can truly say that without their extraordinary dedication, commitment, and advice, I would not be where I am today. I remember clearly when Chris called me the summer before my first semester and informed me of some of the programs available. That was the first warm welcome to the University. Patrick was the liaison of the Haitian Student Association and through that organization I have had several memorable moments and made my closest friends.
What�s ahead?
Commencement to me is the culmination of my UAlbany experience. As a freshman, I never thought about even reaching graduation. It felt so far away when I first saw how many credits I needed to graduate. Now I can say that this was the fastest four years of anybody�s life.
In the future, I do see myself remaining a part of the community here. In my last two years, I have been able to build some strong relationships with professors, advisors and fellow classmates. I want to remain a part of this great network.
I feel really prepared for the future. I have completed my college undergraduate education and look forward to the challenge of completing more advanced degrees.
My short-term plan is to accept the full-time position my internship company in New York City has offered me. In the long-term, I look forward to completing advanced degrees and possibly becoming a professor at a university.
Commencement May 2003
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