Catherine DuPont • Wiess College • Kinesiology, Psychology
Now that I think about how things have changed since I was a freshman, I see that a lot has happened over these four years. When I entered Rice, I didn’t know a soul.
The only expectations I remember having back then were to play some volleyball and come out a whole lot smarter after four years. Who knew how much more I would get out of my time here?
In the classroom, my professors, as well as my classmates, have helped me develop a sincere respect for knowledge. No longer am I learning material just for a test, but finally I can apply it and help others understand it. That in itself is so cool to me. Despite the fact that tests still tend to stress me out, I can admit that I really enjoy and value the opportunity to learn new things. Knowledge really empowers people, and I am grateful to have been provided it so that I can confidently make decisions on my own.
Looking back, I realize that the decisions I have made have helped me grow and learn. For example, I made the choice to go on a mission trip last spring break to Mexico, and that experience, as well as others over these years, has really solidified my faith. I realize that my faith is my decision, and it is truly a part of who I am. Last Christmas I had to make another important decision. Previously, I was focused on going to physical therapy school. Somewhere along the line I became aware of my desire to go to medical school. At first I brushed it off because medical school seemed like an insurmountable thing to take on, plus I would be behind in finishing the requirements—not to mention the fact that I would have to take the MCAT. But as a junior, I finally assessed the situation and realized that I could and would go to medical school. I am so happy that I made that decision because I am challenging myself and pursuing a goal that means a lot to me.
A degree from Rice is incredibly valuable, and I have learned so much since I have been here, but the most valuable things that Rice has provided me with have been the relationships. I have had the privilege of sharing my four years with some incredibly intelligent and motivated people. I imagine that, when looking back on my years here, I will reflect upon the friends I have made rather than tests I have taken or the number of blocks I might have gotten in a volleyball game. The girls on the volleyball team have truly become my family here. We spend more time together than you can imagine, and we have seen failure and success. I can guarantee that I will remember a million and one stories about the girls: what they taught me and I taught them, the crazy experiences we had driving to Florida or on other road trips, and the crazy coaches in our past.
When I return to the world beyond the hedges, I doubt that I will find so many quality people in one place again. So I guess you could say that I was blessed beyond expectation. I expected to get a great education from Rice, and I got that and so much more. I know that I will leave
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