An essay on incorporating virtues found in His Holiness the Dalai Lama's autobiography into college life won freshman Emily Truesdell a semester of free tuition and a chance to have a lunch with His Holiness.
As a part of the UB Reads program, all incoming students who attended freshman orientation were asked to read "Freedom in Exile: The Autobiography of the Dalai Lama," and to submit an essay as part on the ways in which teachings from the book could be incorporated into campus life.
Truesdell, a biochemistry major, was surprised and happy to win the contest.
"I was also a little nervous, but only because I didn't know what to expect," she said.
The luncheon was held on Sept. 19 at the Triple Gym in Alumni Arena, hosted by the Office of the President. His Holiness the Dalai Lama was the guest of honor and keynote speaker.
In her essay, Truesdell found the Dalai Lama's message to be one of tolerance and acceptance.
"At a university as diverse as UB, it is essential that I keep an open mind and remain accepting of people unlike myself."
