Congrats class of 2010!

The class of 2010 will always be special to me.  Last Saturday, 5/15, marked the five year anniversary of my graduation from W&M.  I was lucky enough to have a job lined up shortly thereafter and on August 1 2005 began my work here in the admission office.  As I watched the class of 2010 walk across campus this past Sunday, I couldn’t help but have a proud moment.  This was the first class I admitted to the college and they are now alumni of William and Mary.  I can remember one high school visit where I saw/met a group of students who I will never forget.  They applied to the college, were admitted, enrolled and graduated on Sunday.  I remember another student who had a rough senior year in high school and after he was admitted to W&M, I had to send him a letter asking for an explanation of his drop in grades and stress the importance of maintaining his academic performance.  He walked on Sunday, too.  I have interns that have a special place in my heart because of their hard work, dedication and great personalities they have brought to the office who have also crossed over into the alumni world.

While I have seen classes graduate before this one, there is a certain feeling I now have after seeing my first class come full circle at W&M.  I love my job because of the stories I hear at high schools, the people I meet at programs, and the students I work with on campus.  But, to see a group of students go through the entire process right before your eyes is priceless.  This class will go on to do great things, just as all classes from W&M have done, but this one is extra special in my eyes.  Congrats class of 2010!  You have definitely left your mark on this campus and have left your mark on me.  Go Tribe!

– Randy Tripp