Chapman

I remember the first time I stepped on campus, just an hour after arriving in the US.  I remember the uncertainty of a new country, a new school, a new way of life.  

I distinctly remember those days of little to no money; of long hours working in the kitchen and the library, to make survival a priority. I remember the classes I took and the halls I walked as I worked to pursue the American dream.  

Today, 37 years later, I went back to campus.  It was an emotional day.  I could see my parents celebrate as I walked across the stage to get my MBA. I sensed the rush of emotion and the damp eyes as I relived my life from back then, almost liked it happened yesterday.   

The Chapman Panther blood will always flow in my veins. It was wonderful to connect with my Mentor who showed me around campus.  The changes were plenty. The soul is the same. Our roots define and ground our journey. Chapman was where the magic began.  

About Hemant Rustogi

An award-winning teacher at The University of Tampa, an entrepreneur, a CEO and founding principal of Advantage Pointe Internationale, and blogger on 5oclockreflections.com.

Comments

  1. Sandy Mackinnon says

    Rusty you strike a lot of familiar notes, your memories remind me of mine. We both have much to be great full for. Thanks for your coaching in my business and getting to know you better and most of all your friendship.