Jen is feeling bittersweet. This is my last week of classes, last newspaper, last Jen Tries … ever.
I am genuinely so sad.
I started Jen Tries in my last semester at Lafayette College as a way to hold myself accountable for exploring Lafayette and all the unique opportunities it has to offer. I wanted to make the most of Lafayette, form new friendships and challenge myself by going outside my comfort zone.
I feel I can confidently say that I achieved my goals. Let’s look back at some highlights of Jen Tries together while I thank the people who made it possible.
Jen Tries Geology: This rocked! (Get it?) I found geology truly delightful, and I am so grateful I had the opportunity to learn in the most beautiful place in the world, Hawaii! Thank you, Doc M. and Professor John Wilson for being incredible mentors and teaching me what it actually means to get my hands dirty.
Jen Tries Baking Valentine’s Day treats: It felt like I was living out my dreams of being on “The Great British Baking Show.” Executive pastry chef Julia Craig could not have been kinder, and the cupcakes were delicious!
Jen Tries Bachata: I genuinely had so much fun! I loved bachata so much that I am planning on joining a salsa club post-grad. Thank you, Yoryi, for believing in me! You sparked my love for dance.
Jen Tries Guitar: I still can’t play “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson. Thanks, Taylor, for trying to teach me! You’re the best. You should start teaching guitar lessons for $10,000 an hour. It would be worth every penny.
Jen Tries Acting: This was very much outside my comfort zone, and it is certainly for the best that I did not get the role. I ended up watching Jack’s play, “A Table for One,” and it was incredible! Jack is so talented, and so was Olivia Cox, who played the waitress.
Jen Tries Fencing: Sometimes it is good to know when something is not for you! Fencing is not for me. However, I deeply appreciate the time Tyler and Makenna took to teach me. I am in awe of your talent for fencing.
Jen Tries Horse: It was about time I learned how to ride a horse. Kelly was an awesome teacher, Benjamin was an awesome supporter and Sally was an awesome horse! Thank you, Lafayette Equestrian, for that experience.
Jen Tries Quad-maxxing: I love the quad. Shoutout Spikeball Club for making me love it even more!
Jen Tries Fishing: I still don’t like fish, but I like fishing. Conrad was a great teacher. I think everyone should go fishing with Conrad at least once while at Lafayette.
Jen Tries LAF: This was just a dream come true. Lafayette’s Hot Dog Day is my favorite holiday, and getting to wear the hot dog costume felt so whimsical. Thank you, Elizabeth, for showing me the ropes! And thank you, Tommy, for reminding me that “The vibe is hot dog day.”
To my readers: thank you for following along! I would not have felt as motivated to try something new every week if it weren’t for your support.
Jen Tries is a passion project made out of pure love for this school, the campus community and all it has to offer. Through this column, I am saying goodbye to Lafayette by embracing the college as a whole.
Goodbye Lafayette.
Love, Jen Tries
