I didn’t apply to Mines because of its stellar academic reputation, or its job placement record, or its size, or really any valid reason. Instead, I applied because the application didn’t require me to write an essay and I knew there was a kayak park close to campus. To be honest, I never really thought I’d go here. Sure, Golden is a nice change from the potato fields of southeastern Idaho, but nothing about the school really spoke to me. The Harvey scholarship changed that. It gave me the resources and the drive to “pay it forward,” while expanding my horizons as well. I have opportunities to do everything from donating Christmas presents to a local shelter to interning in Iceland. I’m so glad I came here and I’m not just saying that because of the stellar kayaking. This school and scholarship creates an amazing community I am proud to be a part of.