As graduation inches closer, we as seniors are acutely aware of our soon-to-be "alumni" status. Some of us greet this title with uncertainty and apprehension, others with eager anticipation. Either way, in a little over a month, we will all be Duke graduates and our future ties with our alma mater will be as strong as we choose to make them. As a class we have been challenged to each give $20.03 for our senior gift to the annual fund. Some will choose not to give, but we want to express our reasons for why we will.
Whether we received financial aid or a scholarship, played on a club sports team or participated in any other activity supported by University funds, every member of the Class of 2003 has benefited from the gifts of former students in some way. Years ago, many students found themselves in our shoes, feeling the same apprehension about their future. They moved on and at some point and decided to make a gift to Duke. As a result of these gifts, the members of the Class of 2003 were afforded opportunities that they otherwise may not have had. A solid tradition of giving ensures that these opportunities will present themselves to students in years to come.
We give to the senior gift because looking back over the past four years, there is something in our time here that we have found worthwhile. The problems we have faced are no match for the value of the experience we have gained. The senior gift is both a symbolic gesture of gratitude to those who came before us and a promise to those who will follow behind.
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