I would like to welcome all of you to this new academic year, which--with your help and hard work--promises to take SHPE to new heights.
At the beginning of this new academic year, I would like to encourage all of you to follow two key philosophical principles. The first one is to set high goals for yourselves; the second one is to always do your best. Following these two principles will ensure that you get the most out of your life. Although they will not protect you from failure, which is a constant in life, they will provide you with piece of mind during the hard times of defeat. If you gave it your best shot, there is no shame in defeat.
In this context, it is important that you take advantage of your stay at RPI to extract the maximum benefit of this great opportunity. First of all, focus on your academic performance which is the reason you are here. Although participating in SHPE, or any other student organization, fraternity or sorority, could be a great experience you must not forget that your first priority are your studies. If you are doing well in your courses, then you could consider extra-curricular activities.
I also encourage all of you to participate in the Undergraduate Research Program (URP). Doing an URP is a great opportunity
to participate in real-life research, get to know the faculty, get the faculty to know you, find out if you really like that area of work etc. In all, it is a great opportunity you should not miss.
In closing, I want to reiterate my commitment with your future. A major component of my activities are focused on helping the development of the new generation of leaders, that is bound to take my place in the future. Individuals like yourselves armed with an spirit of unity and commitment for the betterment of all, are bound to have a much needed impact in our Society.
I wish you all the best.
Jose Holguin-Veras, Ph.D., P.E.
