A happy man is too content with the present to think much about the future. On the other hand it is young people above all who like to occupy themselves with bold plans.... If I should have the good fortune to pass my examinations, I would go to the Zürich polytechnical school. I would stay there for four years in order to study mathematics and physics. I see myself becoming a teacher in these branches of the natural sciences, choosing the theoretical part of these sciences.

Here are the reasons that led me to this plan. Above all it is my individual disposition for abstract and mathematical thought... And then there is a certain independence in the scientific profession which greatly pleases me.