by Sandra Egues-Ponce CDE '88
December 1987. A few days before Christmas. 7 p.m.
It was the day before my Econometrics final exam in the master’s degree program of the Center for Development Economics. After studying for several weeks for such a difficult task, I decided to take a break, which turned out to be a BREAK!
I left the CDE building for a short walk and fresh cold air. A few steps from the door, I slipped on the ice and broke my ankle. I could not move. I stood on the ice, wet and freezing, yelling out for help for about 15 minutes. No cell phones back then! I was in pain, exhausted and really scared. Two undergrad students finally heard me and helped me. They held me and stood with me until the ambulance came. I don’t know their names. I wish I did. I still remember that moment, their kindness and their caring.
My plans were to go to California after exams, but in turn, with a huge cast and walking crutches, I stayed in Williamstown with a host family, Charles and Nadine Kalt, who opened their home and hearts for me. Those days are still alive in my memory. I had a very special Christmas. I am forever thankful.
CDE staff members Pam Turton and Sherry Wobus, my fellows and my teachers were all supportive to the most.
As I moved on, I never forgot to look back.
