What’s the most important thing you learned at Lafayette?
I learned the importance of being aware of the place I was in, recognizing the multitude of resources at my disposal and then being able to utilize them to the fullest extent. Secondly, while I was already aware of this, I also evolved in my understanding of how important it was to have a strong support system. I was always really grateful to have the opportunity to study at Lafayette, but every time I was at the airport, the only reason I was willing to board a 20-hour flight from Pakistan to come here was because I was going to meet my friends again. If I would not have had a strong support system and group of wonderful friends, I would not have made it.
What one lesson or memory from Lafayette will remain with you for the rest of your life?
I like to think of it this way: I traveled across the world to come with two suitcases and a lot of hope, and I left with those same two suitcases, full of memories and beautiful moments that are now safely etched in my mind. I find it very hard to pinpoint certain moments because there were so many of them, but I will fondly remember the last few weeks I had on campus before graduation. I loved every second of sitting on the Quad with my friends doing nothing, playing soccer inside Kirby gym, and being able to fully absorb and experience the company of my friends for these final moments.
What advice would you give to high school students who are considering Lafayette?
I would say that you should consider yourself very lucky if you are able to gain admission into this amazing institution because it truly is a wonderful and extremely welcoming place. I have met some of the nicest and most accommodating people in my life at this college who make it their jobs to make Lafayette feel like home. I would advise you to get as involved on campus as you possibly can during your first year, and explore as many different things as you can because this is the time you are truly going to discover and shape yourself. Lafayette has a lot of resources to offer so you will almost certainly find something you really enjoy doing. The only caveat is that you will have to look for it, so I hope you do as much of that as possible. Finally, but maybe most importantly, I know that this might sound cliché and you have heard this many times before, but please do not forget to enjoy this time because you are never going to have this much freedom and comfort in life again.
Lastly, I add that when I was applying to Lafayette, I wrote in my ‘Why Lafayette’ supplement, ‘Settled within the picturesque landscape of Easton, Lafayette promises an amazing time as my home away from home.’ I want to thank Lafayette for keeping this promise and truly becoming my home away from home.
