As the UCLA Anderson class of 2016 graduates, I cannot help but feel a little bit sentimental about their last day at school. When the class of 2017 entered Anderson in early September, we were greeted by the class of 2016 and their boundless enthusiasm – as Orientation leaders, as section leaders and as mentors. Anderson is truly run by the students, and I am sure that every student in the class of 2017 will agree – we would not have reached our dreams had it not been for the endless hours of support and guidance from the class of 2016.

There are many ways in which the second years influence the first years. Starting from coming back early from their vacation to help us get settled in during orientation, to guiding us about major issues like which classes to take, to telling us the secret timings of getting free coffee in the student lounge, to helping us at each and every step of recruitment – the second years have been nothing short of heroic. The second years participate in various roles – all voluntarily and without asking for anything in return. The Anderson Career Teams (ACT), the Interview Prep Team (IPT), Parker Career Series Teaching Assistants and all the student clubs are just a some of the ways in which they help us. This does not include the several hours of mentorship (both formal and informal) that we received from the second years. They spend hours meticulously training the first years, and passing on the baton. As the Class of 2017 prepares to take on these leadership roles, we can only hope that we are as impactful as the Class of 2016.

From my own experience as a student striving to compete in the tough world of consulting, the second years have been monumental in helping me secure an internship. ACT and IPT were just the beginning of my relationship with the second years. Several second years have spent several hours listening to my 30-second pitch, going over my resumes, teaching me how to solve basic math in seconds and boosting my confidence whenever I needed a cheerleader. From calling to check on me during my interviews, to taking me out for coffee to help me deal with rejection, to celebrating me when I signed my offer – the second years are truly family at Anderson.

From the Class of 2017 to the Class of 2016, thank you so much for everything you have done. Each one of us is so grateful to you, and for all your hard work and support during our first year. We will miss you and wish you nothing but the very best in life!