Simon Poulson accepting award on behalf of Anders Krakar

Anders Krakar

Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering Faculty mentor: John McCormack

Summary

What are your plans after graduating?

I'm going to take some time off and try to figure out what's best for me.

What is the most important piece of advice you’d give to an incoming college freshman?

My most important advice is that it’s okay to take things slow, and if you’re struggling, ask for help. We as a society often promote the narrative that if you’re not pushing yourself past your limits then you’re being lazy. It’s not true. Everyone has physical and mental limits, and some people’s limits are lower than others. There’s nothing wrong with needing more time and stepping back to take care of yourself. If that means taking longer to graduate, so be it. You’ll get there eventually.

Where do you see yourself in fifteen years?

I have no idea. I know where I'd like to be, and where I worry I'll be, but where I'll actually be? There's only one way to find out, and it's to keep moving forward, one day at a time.