PISCATAWAY -- Ian Thomas had a bizarre career at Rutgers that left more questions than answers. Until now.

Thomas, who transferred to Western Michigan after trying to return to Rutgers for a third time, sent a lengthy response to NJ.com about his experiences during a tumultuous year. The 20-year-old has clearly gained perspective about his time at Rutgers and his future.



Here is Thomas' full response, in his own words:

"Rutgers football is an outstanding program and a great place to grow and mature as a person and player. I had my opportunity to play a high level of football there and I misused that opportunity.

"Coach (Kyle) Flood and Coach (Darrell) Wilson are two great coaches who always looked out for me and wanted nothing but for me to be the best person and player I could be. I didn't realize that at the time. When I came to that realization it was too late. I did try to come back for training camp as a walk on after not showing up for summer workouts but the decisions I made were the reason I couldn't return. I totally understand that.

"I didn't understand why college football was set up the way it is but now I do. Bonding is what it is all about. Bonding with the rest of the guys on the team. That's why they have us doing everything together. That grind brings us closer together. Turns those "guys" into brothers. Wins and losses are important but they'll be forgotten. The brotherhoods that you build while playing college football last a lifetime. It is very similar to a fraternity. I didn't understand this concept while at Rutgers. I ostracized myself at Rutgers from when I first got there in 2012 and that was the reason I hated it so much. It was downhill from the start. That's on me. Nobody else.

"I wish those guys in Piscataway nothing but the best except if they ever play WMU! They have the talent to compete at a high level in the Big Ten. I know they'll be better than what people give them credit for.

"On the other hand, I'm very grateful that another school gave me an opportunity. Yes, I did leave Rutgers two times and most schools wouldn't want me on their roster. I'm very thankful that Coach (P.J.) Fleck and his staff still believed in me when they had every reason not to. (Director of player personnel) Steve Shimko has been a guy who has helped me get acclimated once I arrived on campus. He has done everything possible to make sure Kalamazoo feels like home and that means a lot to me.

"I made many mistakes at Rutgers but I've also learned so much from those mistakes that I can now take with me throughout life. That's what life is all about. Living and learning. If we were perfect human beings we would never learn a thing! I have nothing but love for Rutgers University and the people there. It will definitely be missed but everything happens for a reason.

"I'm ready to move forward. I just want to be elite and dominate next season with the guys on this WMU roster. That's the biggest difference. Football is the ultimate team sport and it teaches you how to work with people from all walks of life. I'm very excited for not only my future but also the future of this program. Row The Boat!"