That THING that they do

[madville]

It's really exciting visiting these schools and knowing that the opportunity for my S to do something great is available in all these environments. My hope is somewhat renewed in youth based from the sometimes very candid conversations that I've encountered. These young people, regardless of their religious, political, or other varied persuasions, are trying to accomplish some very interesting things. I was impressed at how many were able to articulate what they wanted to try to do. The faculty, other parents, and people in general have been awesome. Don't know if it's a class thing, an economic thing or a intellect thing, but SOMETHING great is happening at these schools and from my recent visits, I can better understand why these institutions are so coveted. I would be very proud for my S to be an alum of any of these fine schools.

[archermom]

Yes, it's amazing and reassuring...isn't it? After finding "their people" and spending 4 yrs with them, they seem carry this "thing" and connection with them. I'd like to think it is a passion for whatever they do. D1 turned down 1 grad school because the students didn't seem as passionate about their research. It speaks highly to their undergrad experience...

[RacinReaver]

D1 turned down 1 grad school because the students didn't seem as passionate about their research.

I did the same thing last year when I was doing my visits. Both schools were in California, and at one school (oddly enough, ranked second in its field) the grad students only seemed to care what they were able to do off campus. I asked one student what his research was about, and he responded with "Ceramics." I asked him what kind of ceramics, and he just replied with "It's not that interesting."! I had been lukewarm on the school before, but that just sealed the deal. Instead, I'm now about 2 hours south of there with an advisor that's ultra-passionate about his work, friends that are dying to get done with classes and into the lab, and a general community that loves learning.