University of Vermont: Off the Record - College Prowler (Off the Record)

Introduction from the Author

Throughout the years of my college career at the University of Vermont, I have not only seen my growth retrospectively, I have felt myself grow—in age and in experience. I had the most wonderful time as a freshman, sharing personal stories with new faces and barely-met acquaintances. It was a time for personal explorations amidst a plethora of curious “first-years.” Our pasts and our dreams poured out, often into the late night or early morning, while new thoughts and ideas flowed forth from our minds as we expressed our knowledge of books, classes, friendships.

Sophomore year was a difficult one for me—more so socially than academically. But talking with friends and professors assuaged my itch to transfer, and by spring semester, I was once again my normal self. I took classes that challenged me and made me immerse myself in books, but still made time for friends and occasional parties. Ultimately, it all culminated after final exams when I published an essay from one of my classes in a scholarly journal based out of India. I had discovered one of my newfound passions, post-colonial literature and theory, which has propelled me even further into critical and literary circles and given me a glimpse into the world of academia.

And now, as I wrap up another year, even better than the last, I prepare for my senior year and the prospects for graduate school—always aware of how far I have come from my beginnings. I truly believe that the University of Vermont has afforded me opportunities that I would not have received elsewhere. Despite my uncertainties in the beginning of my second year, I have no regrets about choosing this as my school—it has truly been a wonderful experience. And now, more than ever, I am undoubtedly more open, more accepting, more intelligent, and I have both my school and myself to thank for that.

Kevyn Jonas Lenfest, Author
University of Vermont