Last year the Chancellor, Dean for Undergraduate Education, the Dean
for Student Life and I started a new tradition of writing a letter to
all students each month on a rotating basis. This has given us
opportunities to let you know about plans, policies or events in a
timely fashion. My turn this semester comes at a very special time for
me. As many of you know, I will be leaving MIT after 41 years here to
become the Provost at The George Washington University.
As you might guess, leaving MIT after such a long time here has put me
in reflective frame of mind. I often think about the special nature of
this university, and how much I have learned by being here. While it
may be a bit of hubris on my part, I decided to share some of these
reflections in my last letter to you.
One of the curious circumstances about being at MIT is that we often
don't see its special characteristics. In the same way fish probably
don't spend any time thinking about water (assuming they think at
all), we sometimes go through the days, semesters and years without
thinking about the incredible place we're part of. In my more
reflective moments, I have had some time to recognize how the
combination of extraordinarily talented people, world class research
facilities, and the supporting ethos of valuing excellence combine
here to create a unique environment for all of us. So many places
around the world have tried to re-create that precise mixture, but few
find that odd formula that has evolved organically here.
Another element of MIT I have come to understand better is the value
of shared experience. Coming from diverse backgrounds, all our
students bring a commitment to excellence and hard work. Their
intellectual intensity is reinforced by the rigor that at the heart of
every department's programs. At the undergraduate level, the General
Institute Requirements and residential life give all students a common
intellectual and social framework that binds them together in ways you
may only understand later. For graduate students, the environment that
fosters research and entrepreneurship provides a shared set of
interests and values that will make you the academic and business
leaders of the future. While MIT isn't the right place for every
student, those who share in its core values and treasure its mission
discover kindred spirits among fellow students, staff and faculty.
The last insight I'd like to share is the importance of things you
learn here that are outside the classroom or lab. Much of my early
academic career grew out of the things I learned as a student, but a
large part of my later work drew on social and leadership skills that
can't really be learned there. Take advantage of the opportunities
here to grow not just as a scholar, but as a person. Learn from
experiences outside the academic realm – through activities with your
fellow students, through service, and through the myriad of
co-curricular activities. Life isn't a problem set or a term paper,
and the things that will bring you happiness and fulfillment won't be
on your transcript or your degree. Cultivate friendships and your ties
to different communities along with your academic skills. Both should
serve you well.
I will certainly take everything I have learned here with me as I
leave this wonderful institution. I know that MIT will continue to
flourish, and that each generation of students will enhance this
place's well-deserved reputation. I urge all of you to treasure your
time here. When you leave, make sure to retain not only the knowledge
from the classroom and lab, but your friendships, the breadth of your
shared experiences, and the drive for excellence that makes this place
great.
Best wishes,
Steve Lerman
