The Talmud asks this very question. Many answers have been suggested, in commentaries and Jewish writings, especially in the Rebbe's Talks. Trees are the world's largest forms of life. Usually we tend to think of growth in terms of change, movement and rejection of the past. Trees teach us this may not always be true.
Trees grow higher than anything else, yet they remain firmly rooted.
College years are full of growth and change, yet we must remain true to our roots and heritage. This will channel and focus our growth, giving it support and vitality. Tap roots sink deep, descending into the depths of the earth. Flat Roots or Lateral Roots, splinter off in many directions, never far beneath the surface. Us Jews at SUNY Albany need both types of roots.