2006 MVS Top Winner: Robert Ryan
Q: How did you choose to attend Stanford University and how did you pick your major?
A: Both were tough choices. It was between Stanford and Harvard. I visited Stanford and it just clicked—I felt at home. As soon as I started classes, I immediately realized why I was supposed to be here. The people have made all the difference. I’ve met people here that have shaped my life and have taught me things. It’s been an amazing experience.

I studied public policy. It takes economic principles and uses them to determine how different policies will affect the economy as a whole. I’ve always been really interested in policy so this has been perfect for me.

Q: What have you been up to since graduation?
A: I graduated in June, and my wife and I are headed to Dallas to do strategy consulting for Accenture. I interned with them over the summer and it was an amazing experience. Next, I plan to go to business school.

Q: What did your ENF scholarship mean to you?
A: It’s definitely a lot more than just the financial help, that’s for sure. The whole experience was a turning point in my life.

Q: What was your favorite memory from attending the Elks Convention?
A: Click here to watch a video of Robert discussing his favorite memories from the Elks Convention.

Q: What does being an Elks scholar mean to you?
A: There’s definitely a connection when you meet someone else who is an Elks scholar. There’s this immediate connection, even if you don’t know the person, you understand we’re a lot alike, we see eye-to-eye.

Q: What advice do you have for other Elks scholars?
A: Don’t be afraid to take chances or not take a class because you think it might be too difficult. I’ve taken some totally random classes and they’ve completely changed the course of my education. College is more than ever a time to explore. If you try to play it safe you miss out on a lot of opportunities.

Q: What is an interesting fact about you that most people would find surprising or unexpected?
A: I love wakeboarding and snowboarding. Those are my two passions.