Matthew Desmond
Pursuing Happiness
Welcome back, Stars! I hope all of you had a great summer and are looking forward to the 2022-2023 school year. There’s no doubt that all of us are feeling something. Some of us might be looking forward to the new year, while some may be feeling nervous. Others might not feel as motivated after having about three months off. Whatever you are feeling is completely normal. Here are some tips for us all to have a great year.
First, I want to address the freshmen. Welcome to Dominican University! This is a place to learn new things, to meet new people, and to grow in a variety of ways. If you are feeling nervous about college, there are many resources to help you. One of the most important things you can do to ensure your success is to take care of your physical and mental health. You can visit the Wellness Center, in Power Hall. There have medical professionals and counselors available. The university offers health insurance if you need it.
The Academic Enrichment Center, located in Parmer Hall, is a great resource with faculty and student tutors that can help you with a variety of subjects including math, writing, and more. You can also visit your professors during office hours, where your professor can give you one-on-one support. As you adjust to college academics, explore campus life. Go to the Involvement Fair on September 13 to learn of campus events, clubs, and organizations. Many events are free and have food! Explore our beautiful campus including the Grotto and the Labyrinth, located behind Parmer Hall. This is your year to get to know our great school!
Next, the sophomores. Now that you have one year of experience, use this year to take charge in your major. Talk with your academic advisor about interesting classes. Try to take classes
outside of your major too, as this might spark your interest in another subject, and it could lead to you double majoring or minoring. Beyond your major, find ways to be a leader on campus. This can be through becoming a Torch Leader or a Peer Advisor. Try to look for Community-Based learning courses, classes that connect service to the subject. Being more involved in campus and your major is a great next step to take.
You’re turn, juniors! Junior year is a busy time filled with 300-level classes. These are challenging, so consider a 100-level or 200-level class. Even if you find one that is not related to your major, the class could balance your workload. Also, try to get more involved professionally by setting up a LinkedIn or Handshake profile. Utilize the Career Center to create a resume and to apply for an internship.
Now, the seniors! We’ve made it! Everything we have worked for has led us to our final year. Keep looking for internships and job opportunities. Plan for after graduation whether that is a career or grad school. Be an example to other students. Keep motivated and finish the year strong. May 2023 will be here before you know it, so enjoy your time!
We are at the beginning of another new school year. Some are just beginning their time at Dominican, while others are in the home stretch. This year will be full of fun and challenges. If you struggle, know that there are people to help you. You will have a successful year. Always remember our school’s motto: Caritas and Veritas (Love and Truth) and the 2022-2023 school year will be a great time for all of us.
