Allow me to begin with a confession. As president of the Class of 2008, I now cringe when I think that when I received my very first opportunity to sit amongst my class in its entirety, I refused. Rather than attend the freshman matriculation ceremony and be officially welcomed into the Tufts community by President Bacow, I persuaded my mom to stay just one more hour on that first day of my college career, postponing my induction into this unknown community of unfamiliar faces.
When the time for goodbyes inevitably arrived, I smiled sadly as my mom hugged me, saying with force: "You are going to be great." Greatness was the furthest thing from my mind as I took on the daunting task of forming new friendships, fearing that I would be a perpetual stranger in my new home.
But as it turned out, the relationships I developed brought me closer to greatness than I thought possible. How could I possibly fail when surrounded by the extraordinary individuals, activities and opportunities that make up Tufts University?
One of the most important relationships that has developed over these past four years was the one formed with our soon-to-be alma mater. So, as in every healthy relationship, I thought it necessary to clearly express my true feelings and sincere gratitude to this influential force before embarking into a world outside the Hill. Here goes:
My darling Tufts, I need to tell you something. The day we were introduced four years ago, I was not sure how I felt about you. You seemed so much older. You were so confident in your abilities that it made me doubt my own strengths. I felt as though I could not be myself around you, having to pick and choose between what I considered crucial aspects of my life before you. You angered me with your arbitrary rules. I grew frustrated at having to work at our relationship when before, everything had seemed so simple. There were times we struggled to coexist, but I knew you were good for me.
I am writing you this letter in thanks. You provided the encouragement and guidance necessary for me to reach my goals and aspirations. Our differences generated character and allowed me to realize that things are not always ideal. The knowledge, maturity and self-assurance I gained from you far outweighed the small price of the dedication you required from me.
I have fallen in love with you. For all of your weaknesses, for all of your flaws, your intentions were kind. And now, just as we have grown so close, you are pushing me away. You kept me here with promises of success and fulfillment. You charmed me with stories of wealth and happiness.
Why must I now leave you to attain such things? Once again, I'm losing direction; I'm being ripped from your safe embrace.
Even though I know you're right and we can't be together, I am devastated at the thought of saying goodbye. I will miss whispering quietly during our long nights at Tisch. I will cherish the memories of laughter over a table at Carmichael. I will dream of those elusive days in late April when we could at last revel in the warm sun.
As I wave goodbye, driving away with the precious belongings I have accumulated over these last few years - including a countless number of your shirts which I will forever keep in loving memory - I realize that our parting is just as difficult for you as it is for me. It was your devotion and influence that guided me toward the path I am about to take. You are selflessly forsaking years of commitment for my benefit. For this, I thank you.
Although our intimate relationship was fleeting, just remember: Where we're losing daily companionship, we've gained lifelong love.
During that matriculation ceremony four years ago, I am told that President Bacow requested that students take a look around, as the next time they would be sitting together would be on the day of graduation. Even though this will be my first and last time sitting alongside the Class of 2008, I feel blessed that you, Tufts, have given me the chance to be among what I consider true greatness. And for that, I thank you.
Forever yours,
Michelle
Michelle Paison graudates today with a degree in Middle Eastern studies. She is the outgoing president of the Class of 2008.
