RE: Future Innovators – Partnering Up?
Hey Troy,
Appreciate you reaching out! I actually already found a partner—good luck with the competition!
- Dan
RE: Future Innovators – Partnering Up?
Hey man,
Congrats on getting in! I’m already locked in with someone, but I’m sure you’ll find a partner fast.
- Vik
RE: Future Innovators – Partnering Up?
Hey Troy,
Wish I could, but I’m set. Hope you find someone solid!
- Jamie
I stare at my screen,frowning. Okay. Not ideal. I check the time—still early. I have nearly two weeks to lock someone in.
Nothing to worry about.
But still, I thought I'd get at least two yeses. I thought I'd be in the position to pick who is the best fit, not beg somebody to partner with me. I pull out my phone and call Jared. Maybe he's still looking too.
“Yo, Hawkins,” he answers on the third ring, music thumping in the background.
“Hey man,” I say, trying to sound casual. “This FIDIC partner thing is a nightmare. Everyone's already paired up.”
Jared laughs, the sound smug even through the phone. “Sucks for you. I locked mine down two days ago. Some computer genius from computing.” I sit up straighter.
“Wait, who'd you get?”
“Riley Sanders. Full-ride scholarship, 4.0 GPA. Like I said—genius.” Riley Sanders. Riley's legendary in the department—the kind of student professors use as an example when they're trying to explain what excellence looks like.
“Didn't realize you two knew each other,” I say carefully.
“We don't,” Jared says, and I can practically hear his shrug. “But my dad does. He donated that new computer lab to the Engineering department last year. Suddenly, everyone's very accommodating.”
Of course. Another thing bought and paid for.
“Wait,” Jared says, realization dawning in his voice. “Are you in this competition, too? Dude, you never said anything.”
“Yeah,” I admit. “Got the acceptance email a few days ago.”
“Well, shit.” Jared laughs. “May the best man win and all that. Though with Riley on my team...” He trails off meaningfully. “Good luck finding someone halfway decent. Sounds like all the good ones are taken.”
I grit my teeth. “Thanks for the concern.”
“No problem, bro. Gotta run—kegger at Alpha Sig.” He hangs up before I can respond. I toss my phone onto my desk, irritation flaring. This isn't just about finding a partner anymore.
It's about proving something. To Jared. To myself. To everyone who thinks money and connections are all that matter. I lean back in my chair, rolling my shoulders. This isn't panic-worthy yet, but it's... irritating.
I’m top of my class. I’ve earned my spot here. But half the guys in my program still act like I got here by accident—like I tripped and fell into good grades. Every time I do well, they look surprised. Like I’m not actually smart, just riding some endless wave of luck.
