Former classmates struggle to reconcile charismatic, thoughtful friend with Ramaswamy's provocative presidential bid

Ramaswamy stood out as a contrarian at elite institutions like Harvard and Yale Law, often playing devil's advocate.

Classmates recall him as charismatic and fun-loving but with controversial opinions that left some wondering about his true beliefs.

He made a fortune in finance before pursuing law school, seen as an "intellectual vacation" though he never planned to practice.

His presidential bid surprised classmates, coming without typical political experience, some seeing it as performance art.

Friends struggle to reconcile the provocative candidate with the likable, thoughtful student they remember, wondering if they really knew him.