Every year the Monterey Institute likes to pause and celebrate in the spirit of the season by asking students, faculty, staff, and alumni to share what they are especially thankful for.
Far from home, students from France and Brazil are getting together to celebrate Thanksgiving. The menu will be all-American with roast turkey and sweet potatoes, and Alexandra Morais (MATLM ’15) is even going to make a cranberry cheesecake. “We have no American family, but we are each other’s family,” says Chilina Rocca-Serra (MBA ’14). When asked what they are thankful for this holiday season, the overwhelming sentiment is of togetherness. “I am thankful for all of the opportunities I have, and for you guys,” Bruno Rossi (MATLM ’15) shares, looking at his fellow classmates. Jessica LeBriquer (MATI ’15) adds, “I’m thankful for being able to pursue my dream of being an interpreter and for the friends that I have made here, the people I have met. I just feel happy here.”