ALUMNI ALUMNI PROFILE: ANDREW BORYGA, MOUNT ST. MICHAEL ACADEMY
What do you remember about your first meeting with your Sponsor?
I remember vividly meeting Eric for the first time. It was at an event held in my school library where they had the students on one side of the room and the Sponsors on the other side. I remember looking down the line and seeing all these older men and I thought to myself that I would have nothing in common with them. The first couple of times we hung out, it was kind of awkward because we were trying to feel each other out and get to know each other a little more. After my sophomore year though, we became very comfortable around each other and since then it has been very rare that I ever refer to Eric as my "Sponsor," I introduce him to others as my friend because that is what he is to me.
Who or what helped to get you through the tough times in high school?
The toughest time was during the college application process. During that time I was not very confident about getting into good schools like Cornell. Encouragement from both my Sponsor and my mother helped me get through that and everything turned out for the best. If it weren't for the opportunity that I received through SSP, I sincerely believe I would not have accomplished half the things I did in high school. SSP provided me with an opportunity to be placed in an environment where I would thrive, in addition to giving me a mentor and a friend that I could rely on for my four years of high school, and in my case, beyond.
What are your long-term goals?
My long term goals are to graduate Cornell and hopefully go on to graduate school where I will pursue a masters degree in journalism. My dream is to one day work for the New York Times. I also want to travel the world as much as possible, learn new languages, and maybe even publish a book sometime in the future.
Do you have advice for new students and Sponsors?
My advice to new students and Sponsors would be to make the most of the opportunity they are presented with. In the case of the student, I would say the best thing would be to remain open minded. Get to know what your Sponsor likes, and even if it's not something you're into, give it a shot. They don't have to pay for your tuition or take you to dinner or even take an interest in your life. They do it because they care, and you should respect and be grateful for that. Sponsors should try to stay in contact as much as possible, and offer as much advice as they can. Most importantly, they should realize that what they're doing can really make a difference in their kid's life and future, and therefore try to do it as best they can.