This semester I have been able to talk to an amazing group of alumni from our college, all of whom have looked back fondly on their time here. The diversity of interests stands out particularly strongly. It’s no secret our campus is modeled to encourage involvement, with its diverse array of classes, clubs, research, and more. One of the most important things a small campus has to offer is opportunities for connection. Getting involved can and should mean forming meaningful relationships that you can carry forward with you long after you’ve graduated. As we can see from our interviewed alumni, that is exactly what it has meant for many.
As we end the semester, the first round of seniors leave us this year. Those seniors who aren’t graduating in the winter are entering their final semester and becoming engaged by the plethora of senior events and last moments on the horizon. Oftentimes it can seem that just when a student becomes more involved than ever before, it’s time for them to leave.
This year, I hope we can carry with us that this is an indicator that graduation is not a divorce from the relationships we have worked so hard to support here. Not only do we have many formal alumni programs and opportunities, but we have the benefit of living in a time when keeping in touch is easier than ever. If a relationship you hold here is meaningful enough, it will persevere through separation. You have the power to preserve it.
As we have heard from alumni throughout the semester, what we do here informs the person we become. The person we become is the most important metric of success. I congratulate all of the seniors leaving this winter, I wish a good semester to all seniors preparing for their last, and I hope to see so many faces again, as proud Roanoke Alumni.
Maggie Raker
Culture, Wellness & Lifestyle Editor
