Pre-Departure

My friends and mentors are awesome. I am very lucky to be surrounded by folks who not only encouraged me to pursue this opportunity but are also committed to supporting me through it. Many will undoubtedly serve as unwilling participants in working through my ideas, where we think too much about the questions being asked and for that I thank you all. My 'see you later' events involved painting parties, a box of letters, trips down the river, dinners, concerts, meaningful gifts and lots of beautiful well wishes overall from those who couldn't make it in person.

Beyond my close friendships there were so many other people in my life who have made this possible. I want to highlight the folks that wrote letters of recommendation and language evaluation as well as Smith College's fellowship office for helping me prepare so thoroughly. I'm sure the secret sauce was in your words about me and I am humbled by your unwavering support as my sponsors. Additionally, I am extremely grateful to have been granted the opportunity to return to my job at Morgan Stanley, it's the kind of peace that will allow me to sleep better at night while I'm here.

It has quite literally taken a village, and I am extremely grateful to have you all in mine. So here are a few faces and gifts: