PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — It’s been a busy couple of weeks for Brown’s newest students. Arriving on College Hill from 47 states and 64 countries, Brown’s 1,723 incoming undergraduates (see more demographic info) have said goodbye to loved ones, moved into residence halls, traveled through the Van Wickle Gates, attended Convocation and navigated a busy schedule of Orientation events. And now, they’re in the throes of shopping classes as they begin their journey through the Open Curriculum.

It’s a lot to take in — but these are not your average students. This year’s cohort of first-year and transfer students have invented life-saving medical devices and logged thousands of hours volunteering in their communities. They’ve advocated for political change and overcome daunting obstacles. They’ve lived in mountain yurts and worked in the commercial fishing industry. They’ve won numerous athletic competitions and given hundreds of valedictorian speeches. And these are just a few of their many accomplishments. 

While each new Brown student has their own unique story and successes, some common inspirations connect them: a fierce intellectual curiosity, a commitment to changing the world for the better and a desire to give back to the people and communities who’ve helped them along the way.

Here are a few of their stories — profiles of six students who are sure to each make an indelible mark on Brown’s unique academic community.