The Annual Summer Garden Party was held earlier this month and was graciously hosted by Rensselaer Trustee Nancy Mueller at her beautiful home in Palo Alto.
A group of nearly 100 alumni, alumnae, current students, incoming students, and their families and guests enjoyed a delicious lunch, followed by remarks from Nancy, welcoming the members of the Class of 2023 to Rensselaer. She also welcomed Rensselaer leadership in attendance, including Dr. Peter Konwerski, Vice President for Student Life, Dr. Shekhar Garde, Dean of the School of Engineering, and Provost Dr. Prabhat Hajela.
Featured speaker Dr. Hajela greeted the Class of 2023 and guests, and offered an overview of Rensselaer’s unique student experience. He spoke about Clustered Learning, Advocacy, and Support for Students, or CLASS, widely recognized as one of the most innovative, comprehensive, and effective student life programs in the nation. He also offered an overview of The Arch, an innovative pedagogical program which provides juniors with an opportunity to spend an extended “away” semester to pursue their interests and passions, and enhance their professional development, whether through an internship or launching a business, a volunteer or research experience, or an approved Individual Learning Experience.
The incoming students in attendance provided the highlight of the afternoon, speaking about the reasons why they chose Rensselaer. Many cited the excellent educational experience, welcoming campus community, hands-on opportunities for research and study, and the upstate New York location. Current students were also asked to share a piece of advice for the Class of 2023. They shared some wonderful recommendations, including “remember to sleep,” “get a heavy coat,” and “put yourself out there” in order to take full advantage of the many amazing opportunities the Rensselaer experience offers.
Help support scholarship at Rensselaer – and support students like those who attended the event – by making a gift to the Rensselaer Annual Fund Scholars Program