2008 Graduating Class

This section provides brief profiles and photos of the Davis United World College Scholars Program’s graduating Class of 2008.

During the preparation of this yearbook, each senior scholar responded to several questions from the Davis UWC Scholars Program. They wrote about the impact of their college experience on their lives, learning, and goals. Many also briefly described their plans and hopes for the future. The profiles that follow quote from their responses.

A B C D E-F G H I-J K L M N O-Q R S T U-V W-Z

	Rita Udisho-Abdal Iraq UWC of the Adriatic, Italy Westminster College Simple things, such as talking to people and developing personal relationships with my professors, are what I liked most about Westminster. Before UWC and Westminster, I thought learning could take place only in the classroom, but this thought was soon shattered after an eye-opening conversation with a member of Westminster’s faculty. Being a residential advisor for two years, interning with AG Edwards, assisting during the disaster relief for Katrina victims, and many other activities brought me valuable, life-long lessons that the classroom could not replicate.
	Maulik Vaishnav India Mahindra UWC, India Lake Forest College At LFC, I am majoring in mathematics and comparative urban studies. I also have enjoyed participating in diverse activities. From helping strengthen the International Students Organization to serving as RA of an international house, I continue to acquire more leadership skills. This semester, the opportunity to study abroad in Argentina, India, and China brought back the great feeling of being at UWC. Hence, I sincerely thank Mr. Davis for the amazing experiences of the past four years.
	Rasa Verseckaite Lithuania Red Cross Nordic UWC, Norway University of Richmond RCN UWC opened the door to the world for me. I majored in history and international studies and engaged in extensive research and community service commitments. Hosting a reggae show at the UR radio station gave me time to rebuild my spirits and tell stories of struggle, peace, spirituality, righteousness, and wisdom. I thank my love, my family, and my friends for bringing courage, strength, and beauty into my life, and the Davis family for empowering and changing lives of so many young people.
	Ryan Vincent Canada Waterford KaMhlaba UWC, Swaziland Colby College My college years have been eye opening. Academically, there has been little to be found wanting at Colby, and I have relished the opportunity to engage in a wide range of disciplines. Upon arriving here, I had no idea what to expect, and after four years, I now understand what it means to be a student. I wish the best of luck to all who come after me.
	Beslan Visambiev Chechnya Red Cross Nordic UWC, Norway Middlebury College My time at UWC ignited my passion for politics, public speaking, and international affairs. As a political science major, I have been extremely enthusiastic about joining and coordinating any politically motivated groups in Middlebury. I have been coordinating Dialogues for Peace, an organization that seeks to address global peace and conflict scenarios by raising awareness via symposiums and presentations. I am confident that the skills I have acquired from my experience in UWC and Middlebury College will prove beneficial in my future political endeavors.
	Nela Vukmirovic Montenegro Li Po Chun UWC, Hong Kong Williams College Common to both colleges and UWCs are the many opportunities waiting to be taken. One such opportunity that made a difference for me was studying in Italy for a year. I went on my own, enrolled at a local university, and immersed myself fully in the culture. Like my UWC experience, I found myself adapting to a different way of living, embracing different customs, and developing a greater sense and respect for diversity.