Sharmin I. Pala

As a Baruch Scholar, I believe that there are three ways to be successful. Of course, academics are important. But, being able to take advantage of the many opportunities given to us and giving back to the community are also significant. Even though it may seem like it at times, grades are not the most important thing in the world. At the end of day, it is the experiences that have allowed us to grow into a better person (cliché, but true).

Academics and other opportunities are for personal gain. One does well in these areas to be better prepared for what lies in the future. But, giving back to the community is not only a personal gain, but also is a way to help those who are less fortunate than oneself. An important aspect of being a Baruch Scholar is that we are debt free when we graduate. I have been given an opportunity that many others do not have. Therefore, it only seems fitting that I should give back to not only my community, but the broader community as well.

Baruch’s Honors Program also believes that as students who are given numerous opportunities to succeed, we should also give back. We are required to do a number of community service hours before we graduate and Freshman Seminar is way to help us get started. Through Freshman Seminar, we are to volunteer with an organization that tries to benefit the larger community. I believe that this is a helpful way for us to begin our services to give back to others.