If I were to travel back in time and speak with a younger version of myself, telling them that I would attend the School for Advanced Studies (SAS), one of the nation’s top schools, I know my childhood self would have laughed in shock and disbelief. I lacked the self-assurance to believe that I could thrive in such a rigorous academic environment. At that time, I was comfortable and somewhat reassured by the idea of staying at a “normal school” and taking a more commonly followed path.
However, looking back now, having completed my journey at SAS, I can confidently assert that deciding to attend this prestigious institution was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The moment I set foot on the Homestead campus, I was immediately drawn in by the vibrant learning environment and the genuine passion of both the students and faculty. SAS nurtures a culture of intellectual curiosity and academic excellence, where everyone is encouraged to push their boundaries and explore their full potential.
This is a quality of SAS that I will forever be grateful for. Challenging myself at SAS has allowed me to realize my full potential as a student and a scholar. The unwavering support and encouragement from my teachers and counselors motivated me to step outside my comfort zone and seek new opportunities for personal and community growth. The mentorship and guidance I received from the teachers at the Homestead campus have played a significant role in shaping the person I am today.
Attending the School for Advanced Studies has been an incredibly transformative experience for me. It has provided me with a wealth of knowledge, honed my skills, and instilled in me the confidence to excel academically and pursue my future goals. The strong foundation I have built at SAS will undoubtedly serve as a guiding force throughout my academic and professional journey.
As I prepare to embark on my academic journey at Boston University this fall, I find myself taking another significant step forward, almost like a leap of faith. It means bidding farewell to the peers and the sense of tranquility I have found during my two-year experience at SAS. Despite any uncertainties I may have about how I will thrive in such a large institution like BU, I draw strength from my time at SAS, the invaluable guidance I received, the unwavering support from those who have stood by me, and the realization that every moment spent at SAS has prepared me for this very moment. Among the profound lessons I have learned at SAS is this: even in the face of uncertainty, take that first step. Navigate life with grace, cleverness, and intelligence, and remember to seek help when needed. Above all, rest assured that the family you have found at SAS will always be there to support you.
So, if you are reading this and find yourself grappling with doubts about taking that initial step, remember that every remarkable journey begins with a leap of faith. Embrace the opportunity to challenge yourself, step beyond the boundaries of your comfort zone, and fervently pursue your dreams, even if they appear audacious or seemingly out of reach. School for Advanced Studies has unequivocally demonstrated to me that greatness resides within each of us, eagerly awaiting liberation. Place your trust in your own abilities, envelop yourself in a nurturing and supportive community, and steadfastly believe that you possess the potential to achieve extraordinary feats. Embrace the transformative power of education and seize this chance to shape a future that transcends the confines of your wildest imagination.
Briannya Evans
School for Advanced Studies Homestead, Class of 2023
Boston University, Class of 2027
