Muhammad Ahsan- FDR’s Salutatorian

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My journey is a familiar one, for many of you. It began here, at FDR about three years ago. I walked in really nervous. I couldn’t speak the language and had no sense of direction. Despite all the barriers and differences, I felt welcomed at FDR. Everyone, from the staff to the students, was so kind, welcoming, and supportive. It’s a difficult thing, leaving everything and everyone you’ve ever known and loved. But I’ve learned that it gets better. I felt lost and alone in a new country at first, slowly, I found a new home here. In this place, I found a place where differences and uniqueness are cherished. A place where innovative thinking and expression of ideas are encouraged. A place where a nervous guy found a home and a much bigger family. A place that served as the beacon of hope. A  lighthouse showing the way, to a lost ship in the night.

When I started at FDR, I never thought I would be the ‘Salutatorian. I did not even know it was a thing (duhh). Additionally, I wasn’t confident in myself. FDR helped me build my confidence. I was encouraged and appreciated even on my minor accomplishments, while my short-comings and mistakes were never highlighted. Most of the people I met supported me, and helped me become who I am in one way or the other.

My advice to the upcoming freshmen would be to work hard, because no matter what everyone else told you, hard work is the key to success. Every person you meet has something to teach you. Learn from them and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Focus only on yourself. Your only competition is you from yesterday.

In the end, I just want to say that I am thankful to the FDR family. I am grateful to everyone who supported me and stayed by my side even when things got ugly. I wish to thank my teachers, who taught me not only my course of study, but the art of living as well. I am tremendously grateful to have been a part of the FDR family.