" Bowdoin was the first place that I fell in love with. When I visited, I just had never been to a place with that many resources and that much access to information. That was stuff that you saw in movies. I didn’t know that existed in real life. "
- DeRay Mckesson

In this statement, DeRay Mckesson expresses his profound admiration for Bowdoin College during a visit that left an indelible impression on him. He recalls feeling amazed by the sheer volume and quality of resources available there, which seemed to surpass what he had previously imagined as possible in real life.

The quote also highlights how exposure to new environments can drastically change one's perceptions and expectations. Mckesson’s initial encounter with such abundant academic resources at Bowdoin transformed his view on what was attainable within an educational setting. This experience likely played a significant role in shaping his future aspirations, illustrating the impact that encountering excellence can have on personal development.

DeRay Mckesson is a prominent American author and social activist known for his work on issues such as police reform and racial justice. His insights often come from firsthand experiences and interactions with institutions like Bowdoin College, which he credits for inspiring him to pursue knowledge and engage in meaningful societal change.