Issue #21– February 13, 2012

Resident Spotlight: Kyle Brossoit

by: Sharon Kompalla, Associate Director - Center for Residence Life

 

 

Interviewer:  Tell me a little about yourself.  Where are you from? What’s your major? Kyle: I am third year student majoring in chemical engineering with minor in mechanical   engineering.  I am from Washington, near Seattle. 

Interviewer:  I know you are a member of Pi Kappa Phi, RIT’s newest fraternity – how did you get involved in the Greek community and what has your experience been like thus far?

Kyle: I chose to get involved because of the enriching experience and the philosophy of brotherhood.  Being involved has taught me valuable life lessons and helped me grow, bringing out the best in me.  I have met many amazing people that I may not have met otherwise.  These experiences have been very valuable.

Interviewer:  Your chapter was recently selected to fill the vacancy in Greek Circle formerly occupied by Triangle fraternity.  What is the chapter most looking forward to with the upcoming move into 624 Charters Way?

Kyle:  It is very fortunate to be able to move into Greek Circle.  We are all looking forward to moving into our home and strengthening our bonds with the Greek community.  It will be great to have a place on campus where all of our brothers can call home, and be together.  Also, by being in close proximity to other fraternities/sororities, this will enhance our opportunities to spend time with them.

Interviewer:   What is the biggest misperception about Greek organizations at RIT or in general?  Why did you choose to join Pi Kappa Phi?

Kyle: I would say the biggest misperceptions about Greek organizations are the stereotypes. When I first came to RIT, I decided to not join any fraternity because of the negative stereotypes I obtained from media exposure.  It wasn’t until spring quarter when a few of my friends began joining fraternities/sororities, that my incorrect image of a "frat boy" was being appropriately challenged. I noticed how they seemed to be more confident and content.  It’s as if they grew or develop more out of their life.  Before I joined Pi Kappa Phi, I met a few members of Pi Kappa Phi and became friends with them.  When I started to open my mind to the idea of joining a fraternity and decided to give it a shot, I looked around a little bit. There are other good fraternities, but I felt more connected to Pi Kappa Phi and believed that my values matched well.  I made a right choice for myself and really enjoy it.

Interviewer:   You currently live in Global Village – what is your most favorite thing about living there and what is one thing you wish you could change about the residential experience at RIT?

Kyle: The most favorite thing about living there would be after a long busy day, I enjoy sitting in the living room, just hanging out with my roommates while doing homework or being able to chill.  Also, being very close to buildings where my classes are has been nice.  One thing I would wish to change though is having a kitchen in our suite.  I felt it was silly that only some suites in Global Village have kitchens and other suites don’t.  I love to cook and it would be nice to have a kitchen.

Interviewer:  Besides your academics and your fraternity, what other things are you involved in at RIT?

Kyle: I have been involved in a few clubs at different times while at RIT, and have done some volunteer work in the community.  This quarter has been quite busy, so I have had to focus on academics.  During free time, I enjoy working out at the gym or hanging out with friends.  I participate with AICHE too when I can.  My schedule next quarter should allow me to get involved with intramural soccer and rejoin a club.

Interviewer:  You are not originally from Western New York, how have you adjusted to New York winters?

Kyle: I am from Washington, so I am used to chilly winters and having done quite a bit of snowboarding I am used to snow.  However the winters here are colder than at home, and can be harsh.  I remember my first year, I knew that it would get very cold but had no clue how cold.  Still, it didn’t take much to adjust; all you have to do is to put on warm clothes.

Interviewer: What has been your favorite memory of living in Rochester while     attending college thus far?

Kyle: I have enjoyed living in Rochester while attending RIT and meeting new people. I   have many memories here and with more experiences ahead, still have more to come.

Interviewer: What is your opinion about RIT’s decision to convert from the quarter  system to the semester system in 2013-2014?

Kyle: I supported RIT’s decision to convert from the quarter system to the semester system.  It would make it easier for us to find co-ops. And it is nice to have holiday breaks at the same time as other universities/colleges with the semester system, especially with the winter quarter.  I don’t like starting a quarter with a long break coming up in a few weeks.  People told me that quarter systems are more fast-paced than semester systems.  If that is true, then I would also prefer a semester system because life is short and there’s no point in rushing. 

Interviewer:  What do you like to do for fun with your free time?

Kyle: My hobbies/interests have evolved over time.  For now, I like to use my free time to go to the gym and workout, read a good book, or hang out with friends.  Maybe next  quarter I will do something different.

Interviewer:  Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Kyle: It’s tough to say exactly where I see myself 10 years from now. That picture is still developing.  In some ways it seems that the real future always turns out different than what we thought would happen.   I know for sure that 10 years from now, I want to have a job that I really enjoy, have a good place to live, get to do things I am passionate about, and be surrounded by people I can call real friends, and be a person who adds value to my world and those I connect with.

 

 

 

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